Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for&nbsp;almost 540 days been&nbsp;engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens.

This testing phase of the digital Rouble coincides with the Russian currency falling to its lowest position against the dollar since March 2022 — a month after the launch of its military campaign in Ukraine.

<h2>Strategic evasion</h2>

AFP reports that while Russia has been contemplating the launch of a digital currency for years, its inception actually gained momentum after Western sanctions on the nation's access to the global banking system.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-boycott-2024-paris-olympics-if-russians-are-allowed-to-compete-pm-625787">Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM</a>

Joining the ranks of 20 other nations globally, Russia's launch of the digital currency pilot phase aims to make its financial system more flexible while limiting the impact of international sanctions.

Speaking to the news agency, Mikkel Morch, founder of crypto-focused investment fund ARK36, said,&nbsp;"It will enhance Russia's ability to evade sanctions".

<h2>Russia and sanctions</h2>

Following the launch of its military offensive, Russia was at the receiving end of many sanctions, including ones that banned many Russian banks from the main system used for international transactions. This put Moscow in a vulnerable position and pushed the nation towards innovating ways to 'de-dollarise'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/natos-condition-for-ukraine-membership-hinges-on-territory-concession-to-russia-625815">NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia</a>

Morch said that the digital currency will help Russia bypass banks and restrictions. Blockchain is "much less easy to sanction and attack," he said, adding that the launch is "part of a geopolitical war between pro-dollar countries and anti-dollar countries".

<h2>Concerns and more</h2>

As per Morch, the launch will give the government "immense control" over citizens and it could be used as "the ultimate social control tool."

Meanwhile, some NGOs have also voiced their concerns. AFP reports that the Atlantic Council has&nbsp;warned: "In the wrong hands, this data could be used to spy on citizens' private transactions."

Russians too are reportedly not convinced and remain sceptical. A survey by state-owned pollster VCIOM revealed that approximately six out of ten Russians have a "weak understanding" of the government's motives and are hesitant to embrace the currency.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for almost 540 days been engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens.

Russia on Tuesday started consumer testing of its new e-currency, the digital rouble. Utilising blockchain technology, the nation, which has for almost 540 days been engaged in a war with neighbouring nation Ukraine, intends to bypass international sanctions and also tighten control over its citizens. This testing phase of the digital Rouble coincides with the Russian currency falling to its lowest position against the dollar since March 2022 — a month after the launch of its military campaign in Ukraine. Strategic evasion AFP reports that while Russia has been contemplating the launch of a digital currency for years, its inception actually gained momentum after Western sanctions on the nation's access to the global banking system. Also read | Ukraine to boycott 2024 Paris Olympics if Russians are allowed to compete: PM Joining the ranks of 20 other nations globally, Russia's launch of the digital currency pilot phase aims to make its financial system more flexible while limiting the impact of international sanctions. Speaking to the news agency, Mikkel Morch, founder of crypto-focused investment fund ARK36, said, "It will enhance Russia's ability to evade sanctions". Russia and sanctions Following the launch of its military offensive, Russia was at the receiving end of many sanctions, including ones that banned many Russian banks from the main system used for international transactions. This put Moscow in a vulnerable position and pushed the nation towards innovating ways to 'de-dollarise'. Also read | NATO's condition for Ukraine: Membership hinges on territory concession to Russia Morch said that the digital currency will help Russia bypass banks and restrictions. Blockchain is "much less easy to sanction and attack," he said, adding that the launch is "part of a geopolitical war between pro-dollar countries and anti-dollar countries". Concerns and more As per Morch, the launch will give the government "immense control" over citizens and it could be used as "the ultimate social control tool." Meanwhile, some NGOs have also voiced their concerns. AFP reports that the Atlantic Council has warned: "In the wrong hands, this data could be used to spy on citizens' private transactions." Russians too are reportedly not convinced and remain sceptical. A survey by state-owned pollster VCIOM revealed that approximately six out of ten Russians have a "weak understanding" of the government's motives and are hesitant to embrace the currency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia launches digital rouble to evade international sanctions

Two Russians&nbsp;accused of spreading propaganda on behalf of the Wagner mercenary group in the&nbsp;two biggest cities of&nbsp;Poland, Warsaw and Krakow, have been arrested, said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski, on Monday (August 14). This comes amid mounting tensions between European Union member Poland and Russian ally Belarus after the mercenary group’s fighters were sent to Minsk to live in exile.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the two Russians accused of?</h2>

According to a statement by the press office of the minister responsible for coordinating special services, the duo distributed around 300 leaflets in the two Polish cities, which were among around 3,000 pro-Wagner items of propaganda in their possession.&nbsp;

The Polish counter-intelligence agency identified the two men as Alexei T. and Andrei G., without providing any further details. The two men were arrested on Friday after they distributed leaflets containing links to “recruitment websites” for the Wagner group, said the Polish agency.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-fighters-move-closer-to-poland-border-could-pose-as-migrants-to-enter-eu-warns-polish-pm-620670">Wagner fighters move closer to Poland border, could pose as migrants to enter EU, warns Polish PM</a>

It added, “The Russians had on them more than 3,000 propaganda leaflets promoting the Wagner group. The material was given to them in Moscow.” According to Polish officials, the duo was set to leave the country on Saturday and receive up to 500,000 roubles ($4,930) from Russian authorities for the “commissioned tasks”.&nbsp;

<h2>Charges against two men</h2>

“Both were charged with espionage, among other things,” said the Polish interior minister, on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;

Prosecutors charged the Russian men with “activities for foreign intelligence against Poland” as well as association with and recruitment for a mercenary service banned under international law, and the promotion of symbols and names supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, said the press office statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-to-send-more-troops-to-border-with-belarus-accuses-moscow-minsk-of-organising-new-migrant-influx-623538">Poland to send more troops to border with Belarus; accuses Moscow, Minsk of ‘organising’ new migrant influx</a>

The two Russians who have been remanded in pre-trial custody face up to 10 years in prison if convicted, it added.&nbsp;

<h2>What was on the leaflets?</h2>

According to Polish media reports, stickers promoting the Russian mercenary group began appearing last week. They reportedly had the Wagner logo, a slogan in English saying, “We are here. Join us,” and a QR code that redirected people to a Russian website about the mercenary group.

<h2>Poland ramps up border security</h2>

Last week, Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said that the country is planning to move up to 10,000 additional troops to the border with Belarus to support the Border Guard.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-to-deploy-around-10000-soldiers-to-border-with-belarus-624520">Poland to deploy around 10,000 soldiers to border with Belarus</a>

This was a day after Wasik told the state-run news agency PAP that Warsaw would deploy 2,000 additional troops to combat purported illegal crossings and maintain cross-border stability.

Poland has been ramping up security along its border with Belarus – a close ally of Russia – after mercenary group Wagner sent its troops to Minsk in exile following their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s aborted mutiny in Russia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Two Russians accused of spreading propaganda on behalf of the Wagner mercenary group in the two biggest cities of Poland, Warsaw and Krakow, have been arrested, said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski, on Monday (August 14).

Two Russians accused of spreading propaganda on behalf of the Wagner mercenary group in the two biggest cities of Poland, Warsaw and Krakow, have been arrested, said Polish Interior Minister Mariusz Kaminski, on Monday (August 14). This comes amid mounting tensions between European Union member Poland and Russian ally Belarus after the mercenary group’s fighters were sent to Minsk to live in exile. What are the two Russians accused of? According to a statement by the press office of the minister responsible for coordinating special services, the duo distributed around 300 leaflets in the two Polish cities, which were among around 3,000 pro-Wagner items of propaganda in their possession. The Polish counter-intelligence agency identified the two men as Alexei T. and Andrei G., without providing any further details. The two men were arrested on Friday after they distributed leaflets containing links to “recruitment websites” for the Wagner group, said the Polish agency. ALSO READ | Wagner fighters move closer to Poland border, could pose as migrants to enter EU, warns Polish PM It added, “The Russians had on them more than 3,000 propaganda leaflets promoting the Wagner group. The material was given to them in Moscow.” According to Polish officials, the duo was set to leave the country on Saturday and receive up to 500,000 roubles ($4,930) from Russian authorities for the “commissioned tasks”. Charges against two men “Both were charged with espionage, among other things,” said the Polish interior minister, on X, formerly known as Twitter. Prosecutors charged the Russian men with “activities for foreign intelligence against Poland” as well as association with and recruitment for a mercenary service banned under international law, and the promotion of symbols and names supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, said the press office statement. ALSO READ | Poland to send more troops to border with Belarus; accuses Moscow, Minsk of ‘organising’ new migrant influx The two Russians who have been remanded in pre-trial custody face up to 10 years in prison if convicted, it added. What was on the leaflets? According to Polish media reports, stickers promoting the Russian mercenary group began appearing last week. They reportedly had the Wagner logo, a slogan in English saying, “We are here. Join us,” and a QR code that redirected people to a Russian website about the mercenary group. Poland ramps up border security Last week, Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said that the country is planning to move up to 10,000 additional troops to the border with Belarus to support the Border Guard. ALSO READ | Poland to deploy around 10,000 soldiers to border with Belarus This was a day after Wasik told the state-run news agency PAP that Warsaw would deploy 2,000 additional troops to combat purported illegal crossings and maintain cross-border stability. Poland has been ramping up security along its border with Belarus – a close ally of Russia – after mercenary group Wagner sent its troops to Minsk in exile following their chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s aborted mutiny in Russia. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poland detains two Russians for spreading Wagner ‘propaganda’

In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people."&nbsp;

<h2>Continuing aid</h2>

As per the US Defence website, this latest instalment is the 44th "tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021."

"The United States will continue to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," says a statement on the Department of Defense website.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-crude-oil-exports-to-india-gave-moscow-far-more-money-than-previously-recognised-625387">Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised</a>

The aid package, which includes additional air defence munitions, artillery and tank ammunition, anti-armour weapons, and other equipment, will help Ukraine fortify its defensive capabilities on multiple fronts and "counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression."

It comes as the Russia-Ukraine war crosses the 535-day mark. Announcing the aid package on X, formerly Twitter, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said:&nbsp;"Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people."

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Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1691102762203787264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What does the $200 million assistance include?</h2>

The assistance includes a variety of munitions, equipment, and weaponry, including additional munitions for Patriot air defence systems, extra ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), mine clearing equipment and systems, and both 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds.

Also included are 120mm tank ammunition; tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles; Javelin and other anti-armour systems and rockets; 37 tactical vehicles to tow and haul equipment; 58 water trailers; over 12 million rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades; demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing; and spare parts, maintenance, and other field equipment.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-scrambled-mig-29-to-thwart-norways-attempt-of-potential-border-breach-625446">Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach</a>

As per a statement published on the US Defence website, the latest allocation of war supplies was made&nbsp;as part of the assistance previously allocated under the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Ukraine. It utilises resources that "remained after the PDA revaluation process concluded in June," added the statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people.

In a bid to bolster war-torn Ukraine's "immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements", the United States's Department of Defense (DoD) on Monday (August 14th) announced a new arms and equipment aid package valued at around $200 million to help "Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people." Continuing aid As per the US Defence website, this latest instalment is the 44th "tranche of equipment to be provided from DoD inventories for Ukraine since August 2021." "The United States will continue to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," says a statement on the Department of Defense website. Also read | Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised The aid package, which includes additional air defence munitions, artillery and tank ammunition, anti-armour weapons, and other equipment, will help Ukraine fortify its defensive capabilities on multiple fronts and "counter Russia's ongoing war of aggression." It comes as the Russia-Ukraine war crosses the 535-day mark. Announcing the aid package on X, formerly Twitter, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people." Today we are announcing deliveries of $200 million worth of arms and equipment for Ukraine. Air defense, anti-armor, and munitions will keep the Ukrainian armed forces in the fight to defend their country's sovereignty, territory, and people. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) August 14, 2023 × What does the $200 million assistance include? The assistance includes a variety of munitions, equipment, and weaponry, including additional munitions for Patriot air defence systems, extra ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), mine clearing equipment and systems, and both 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds. Also included are 120mm tank ammunition; tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles; Javelin and other anti-armour systems and rockets; 37 tactical vehicles to tow and haul equipment; 58 water trailers; over 12 million rounds of small arms ammunition and grenades; demolitions munitions for obstacle clearing; and spare parts, maintenance, and other field equipment. Also read | Russia claims it scrambled MiG-29 to thwart Norway's attempt of potential border breach As per a statement published on the US Defence website, the latest allocation of war supplies was made as part of the assistance previously allocated under the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA) for Ukraine. It utilises resources that "remained after the PDA revaluation process concluded in June," added the statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US allocates arms worth $200 million to help Ukraine counter 'Russia's ongoing war of aggression'

A large fire broke out at a fertiliser warehouse in the town of Ramenskoye in the Moscow region on Sunday (August 13), reported Russian news agencies citing&nbsp; officials, amid doubts that it may have been caused by Ukrainian drones. The&nbsp;fire, which has since been extinguished, comes days after another warehouse in Odintsovo, a town to the west of Moscow, was ablaze.

<h2>What happened in Ramenkoye?</h2>

According to the Russian state news agency RIA, the size of the fire had reached 2,700 square metres before it was localised and put out.

Images and videos showed thick black smoke and a flame emerging from the site which could be seen from hundreds of metres away. 
 
Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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A big fire in Ramenskoye, a suburb southwest of Moscow which is close to Zhukovsky International Airport. Unclear what is burning yet. <a href="https://t.co/rtUQ1tR2Rl">pic.twitter.com/rtUQ1tR2Rl</a>
— NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) <a href="https://twitter.com/NOELreports/status/1690655793446539264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Fertilizer warehouse on fire on the outskirts of southeast Moscow this morning. <a href="https://t.co/arLwdxicTi">pic.twitter.com/arLwdxicTi</a>
— Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) <a href="https://twitter.com/igorsushko/status/1690662294664138752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Moscow region prosecutor’s office said the preliminary cause of the fire was a violation of fire safety requirements during welding work, reported the Russian state news agency, TASS. Additionally, the media report citing the warehouse’s owners said that all employees had left the premises.&nbsp;

<h2>Series of fires and explosions around Moscow</h2>

The Russian capital city and its surrounding areas have recently witnessed a rise in incidents of warehouse fires or explosions.&nbsp;

The incident on Sunday comes days after TASS citing the Russian emergency service reported a massive fire in a warehouse in Odintsovo, a town to the west of Moscow between Vladimir Putin and the Vnukovo airport.

According to TASS, the fire on Thursday (August 10) started in the warehouse, 6.5 kilometres away from Putin’s presidential residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. The size of the fire was reported to be 2,000 square metres, as of midnight (local time). However, the cause of the fire was not immediately known.&nbsp;

A day prior to that, a powerful explosion ripped through a factory which the Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles and is around 70 kilometres northeast of Moscow.&nbsp;

The explosion had also led to the death of one woman and injured more than 50, said the Russian officials, at the time. One of the victims has died as a result of their injuries, the TASS news had previously reported.&nbsp;

<h2>Connection to Ukraine drone attacks?</h2>

These incidents have reportedly been linked to a rise in alleged Ukrainian drone attacks in and around the capital city, by pro-Kremlin commentators, as Russia is in the midst of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

While Kyiv has not directly claimed responsibility for any attacks against Russia, top officials have reportedly welcomed them. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last month, said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-coming-to-russia-says-ukraines-zelensky-after-moscow-drone-attack-620848">“war” was coming to Russia</a>, hours after a drone attack on the capital Moscow.&nbsp;

“Gradually, the war is returning to the territory of Russia – to its symbolic centres and military bases, and this is an inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process,” Zelensky had said at the time.&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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A large fire broke out at a fertiliser warehouse in the town of Ramenskoye in the Moscow region on Sunday (August 13), reported Russian news agencies citing officials, amid doubts that it may have been caused by Ukrainian drones.

A large fire broke out at a fertiliser warehouse in the town of Ramenskoye in the Moscow region on Sunday (August 13), reported Russian news agencies citing officials, amid doubts that it may have been caused by Ukrainian drones. The fire, which has since been extinguished, comes days after another warehouse in Odintsovo, a town to the west of Moscow, was ablaze. What happened in Ramenkoye? According to the Russian state news agency RIA, the size of the fire had reached 2,700 square metres before it was localised and put out. Images and videos showed thick black smoke and a flame emerging from the site which could be seen from hundreds of metres away. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. A big fire in Ramenskoye, a suburb southwest of Moscow which is close to Zhukovsky International Airport. Unclear what is burning yet. pic.twitter.com/rtUQ1tR2Rl — NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) August 13, 2023 × Fertilizer warehouse on fire on the outskirts of southeast Moscow this morning. pic.twitter.com/arLwdxicTi — Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) August 13, 2023 × The Moscow region prosecutor’s office said the preliminary cause of the fire was a violation of fire safety requirements during welding work, reported the Russian state news agency, TASS. Additionally, the media report citing the warehouse’s owners said that all employees had left the premises. Series of fires and explosions around Moscow The Russian capital city and its surrounding areas have recently witnessed a rise in incidents of warehouse fires or explosions. The incident on Sunday comes days after TASS citing the Russian emergency service reported a massive fire in a warehouse in Odintsovo, a town to the west of Moscow between Vladimir Putin and the Vnukovo airport. According to TASS, the fire on Thursday (August 10) started in the warehouse, 6.5 kilometres away from Putin’s presidential residence in Novo-Ogaryovo. The size of the fire was reported to be 2,000 square metres, as of midnight (local time). However, the cause of the fire was not immediately known. A day prior to that, a powerful explosion ripped through a factory which the Russian media has previously said manufactures military equipment like night vision goggles and is around 70 kilometres northeast of Moscow. The explosion had also led to the death of one woman and injured more than 50, said the Russian officials, at the time. One of the victims has died as a result of their injuries, the TASS news had previously reported. Connection to Ukraine drone attacks? These incidents have reportedly been linked to a rise in alleged Ukrainian drone attacks in and around the capital city, by pro-Kremlin commentators, as Russia is in the midst of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine. While Kyiv has not directly claimed responsibility for any attacks against Russia, top officials have reportedly welcomed them. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, last month, said “war” was coming to Russia, hours after a drone attack on the capital Moscow. “Gradually, the war is returning to the territory of Russia – to its symbolic centres and military bases, and this is an inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process,” Zelensky had said at the time. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Video | Large fire breaks out at fertiliser warehouse in Moscow region

At least seven people, including a baby, were killed after Russian forces shelled two villages in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, on Sunday (August 13), according to officials in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have shot down at least four&nbsp;Ukrainian drones over western regions.&nbsp;

<h2>At least seven including baby killed in Kherson</h2>

A couple, their 23-day-old daughter, and another man were killed in the village of Shyroka Balka, said Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. The couple’s previously critically wounded 12-year-old son later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, he added.&nbsp;

Two people were killed and one person was wounded in the neighbouring village of Stanislav, said Klymenko, adding that the area was struck 12 times with artillery. “The terrorists will never willingly stop killing civilians,” said the Ukrainian minister.&nbsp;

He added, “Terrorists must be stopped. They must be stopped by force. They don’t understand anything else.”&nbsp;

This comes after Ukraine had managed to reclaim the western part of the Kherson region from Russian occupation last November, however, Moscow’s forces have continued regularly shelling the region from across the Dnipro River.

<h2>Russian defence&nbsp;downs four&nbsp;Ukrainian drones over Russia</h2>

Amid a spike in reported Ukrainian drone attacks on Russia, the country’s defence ministry said that they shot at least three more drones over two regions, on Sunday (August 13). According to the Russian defence ministry, three&nbsp;drones were shot down over the Belgorod region and another over the Kursk region.&nbsp;

This also comes a day after Russia claimed to have shot <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-six-injured-in-donetsk-after-ukrainian-shelling-use-of-cluster-munitions-russian-official-624944">20 unmanned Ukrainian drones</a> near the Crimean peninsula. Air defence systems were used to down 14 drones and six more using electronic warfare, said the defence ministry, on Saturday (August 12).&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine is trying to pierce Russian lines in south: Russian-installed official</h2>

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in parts of Zaporizhzhia controlled by Moscow, on Sunday (August 13) said that the Ukrainian forces are trying to pierce Russian lines in the western parts of the Donetsk region.&nbsp;

The Russian official also reported intense fighting south of Velyka Novosilka where Ukrainian troops are supposedly trying to pierce Russian lines to push down to the coast on the Sea of Azov.&nbsp;

“The enemy managed to enter and gain a foothold in the northern part of Urozhaine after two weeks of the heaviest and bloodiest battles for this settlement,” said Rogov.&nbsp;

However, he also said that the Russian forces still controlled the southern part of Urozhaine, adding that Ukrainian forces were clearly aiming to take control of a town further south, Staromlynivka, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Ukraine launched its counteroffensive last month to retake territory captured by Russia in the south and east of the country. On Saturday, Ukrainian forces also said they had “partial success” near Robotyne on the front line in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian warship fires warning shots at cargo ship in Black Sea</h2>

The Russian defence ministry, on Sunday (August 13), said that it fired warning shots with automatic weapons on a Palau-flagged cargo ship in the Black Sea as it made its way to Ukraine.&nbsp;

According to Russian officials, its Vasily Bykov patrol ship had fired automatic weapons on the Sukru Okan vessel after it failed to respond to a halt for an inspection. The ship was said to be heading to the Ukrainian port of Izmail.&nbsp;

“To forcibly stop the vessel, warning fire was opened from automatic weapons,” said the Russian officials, adding that the military boarded the vessel with the help of a Ka-29 helicopter.

“After the inspection group completed its work on board, the Sukru Okan continued on its way to the port of Izmail,” said the Russian defence ministry. A report by Reuters citing Refinitiv shipping data said that the ship seemed to be headed north towards the coast of Bulgaria.

The incident also comes a month after Russia formally backed out of the United Nations-brokered grain deal and stopped Ukraine from exporting its grain via the Black Sea amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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At least seven people, including a baby, were killed after Russian forces shelled two villages in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, on Sunday (August 13), according to officials in Ukraine.

At least seven people, including a baby, were killed after Russian forces shelled two villages in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson, on Sunday (August 13), according to officials in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have shot down at least four Ukrainian drones over western regions. At least seven including baby killed in Kherson A couple, their 23-day-old daughter, and another man were killed in the village of Shyroka Balka, said Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. The couple’s previously critically wounded 12-year-old son later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital, he added. Two people were killed and one person was wounded in the neighbouring village of Stanislav, said Klymenko, adding that the area was struck 12 times with artillery. “The terrorists will never willingly stop killing civilians,” said the Ukrainian minister. He added, “Terrorists must be stopped. They must be stopped by force. They don’t understand anything else.” This comes after Ukraine had managed to reclaim the western part of the Kherson region from Russian occupation last November, however, Moscow’s forces have continued regularly shelling the region from across the Dnipro River. Russian defence downs four Ukrainian drones over Russia Amid a spike in reported Ukrainian drone attacks on Russia, the country’s defence ministry said that they shot at least three more drones over two regions, on Sunday (August 13). According to the Russian defence ministry, three drones were shot down over the Belgorod region and another over the Kursk region. This also comes a day after Russia claimed to have shot 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones near the Crimean peninsula. Air defence systems were used to down 14 drones and six more using electronic warfare, said the defence ministry, on Saturday (August 12). Ukraine is trying to pierce Russian lines in south: Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in parts of Zaporizhzhia controlled by Moscow, on Sunday (August 13) said that the Ukrainian forces are trying to pierce Russian lines in the western parts of the Donetsk region. The Russian official also reported intense fighting south of Velyka Novosilka where Ukrainian troops are supposedly trying to pierce Russian lines to push down to the coast on the Sea of Azov. “The enemy managed to enter and gain a foothold in the northern part of Urozhaine after two weeks of the heaviest and bloodiest battles for this settlement,” said Rogov. However, he also said that the Russian forces still controlled the southern part of Urozhaine, adding that Ukrainian forces were clearly aiming to take control of a town further south, Staromlynivka, reported Reuters. Ukraine launched its counteroffensive last month to retake territory captured by Russia in the south and east of the country. On Saturday, Ukrainian forces also said they had “partial success” near Robotyne on the front line in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Russian warship fires warning shots at cargo ship in Black Sea The Russian defence ministry, on Sunday (August 13), said that it fired warning shots with automatic weapons on a Palau-flagged cargo ship in the Black Sea as it made its way to Ukraine. According to Russian officials, its Vasily Bykov patrol ship had fired automatic weapons on the Sukru Okan vessel after it failed to respond to a halt for an inspection. The ship was said to be heading to the Ukrainian port of Izmail. “To forcibly stop the vessel, warning fire was opened from automatic weapons,” said the Russian officials, adding that the military boarded the vessel with the help of a Ka-29 helicopter. “After the inspection group completed its work on board, the Sukru Okan continued on its way to the port of Izmail,” said the Russian defence ministry. A report by Reuters citing Refinitiv shipping data said that the ship seemed to be headed north towards the coast of Bulgaria. The incident also comes a month after Russia formally backed out of the United Nations-brokered grain deal and stopped Ukraine from exporting its grain via the Black Sea amid the ongoing war. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 7, including baby killed in Ukraine after Russian shelling; Moscow downed 4 drones

At least one civilian was killed and six others were wounded, including a 12-year-old girl, in Donetsk after an intense Ukrainian shelling and use of cluster munitions, said the Russian-installed official in the eastern Ukrainian region, on Saturday (August 12). This comes after much opposition to the United States sending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">cluster munitions</a> to Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian shelling in Donetsk</h2>

Russian-appointed head of the region, Denis Pushilin took to Telegram and said that one civilian was killed in a district of the city of what Moscow calls Donetsk People’s Republic, since claiming to have annexed it. He added that six people were also wounded in Makiivka, which is in the east of Donetsk.&nbsp;

“In total, the enemy fired 127 rounds of ammunition at peaceful cities and regions in the republic,” said Pushilin. He also went on to claim cluster munitions were among the artillery used.&nbsp;

This comes amid reports of both sides using cluster munitions since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Last month, Washington sent cluster munitions to Kyiv amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-nations-rights-groups-and-un-oppose-us-move-to-send-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-613459">protests and criticism</a> while Ukraine has since vowed to only use them against concentrations of enemy soldiers amid its counteroffensive.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine reports ‘partial success’ in south</h2>

In its daily update, the Ukrainian military, on Saturday (August 12), said that its forces had made progress near Robotyne on the front line in the southern Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp;

Ukraine also reported that there were children among those killed or wounded following a day when Russians launched six rockets, and 36 air strikes and fired 32 rocket salvo fire systems at populated areas and Ukrainian troop positions, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that they had “partial success in the Robotyne area of the Zaporizhzhia region.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-eu-delivers-nearly-224000-shells-to-kyiv-as-part-of-ammo-plan-624845">Ukrainian forces</a> continued an offensive operation in Melitopol and Berdyansk directions, said the military in its update, adding that some 33 combat clashes had taken place.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia vows to retaliate for Ukraine’s attack on Crimea bridge</h2>

The Russian foreign ministry condemned what it called Ukraine’s “terrorist attack” on the Crimean Bridge, adding that they put civilians’ lives at risk. “There can be no justification for such barbaric actions and they will not go unanswered,” said ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.&nbsp;

This comes after Russia claimed to have shot down <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-two-missiles-downed-over-crimea-bridge-claims-pro-russia-official-624842">two Ukrainian missiles</a> over a bridge connecting Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow back in 2014. The Russian-installed governor of the Crimean peninsula said “Air defence forces shot down two enemy missiles over the Kerch Strait. The Crimean bridge was not damaged.”&nbsp;

<h2>20 unmanned Ukrainian drones shot down</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-defence-minister-inspects-military-preparedness-in-the-arctic-624854">Russia</a> on Saturday further claimed that 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones were shot down by his officials near the Crimean peninsula where attacks by Kyiv have appeared to step up.

Air defence systems were used to down 14 drones and six more using electronic warfare, said the defence ministry on the Telegram. There were no casualties or damage, it added.

Kaluga region Governor Vladislav Shapsha also said that they also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-odesa-opens-beaches-for-public-first-time-since-russian-invasion-624825">intercepted a drone</a> in the region, which is around 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow.&nbsp;

<h2>At least two killed in Russian shelling of Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia</h2>

According to Ukrainian officials, an elderly woman and a police officer were killed early Saturday after Russian shelling in the Kharkiv region and Zaporizhzhia.&nbsp;

Kharkiv governor Oleh Synehubov reported the death of a 73-year-old woman and damage to a residential building.&nbsp;

In a separate attack on Orikhiv town in the Zaporizhzhia region, one police officer was killed and 12 people, including four police officers, were injured, reported Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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At least one civilian was killed and six others were wounded, including a 12-year-old girl, in Donetsk after an intense Ukrainian shelling and use of cluster munitions, said the Russian-installed official in the eastern Ukrainian region, on Saturday (August 12).

At least one civilian was killed and six others were wounded, including a 12-year-old girl, in Donetsk after an intense Ukrainian shelling and use of cluster munitions, said the Russian-installed official in the eastern Ukrainian region, on Saturday (August 12). This comes after much opposition to the United States sending cluster munitions to Ukraine. Ukrainian shelling in Donetsk Russian-appointed head of the region, Denis Pushilin took to Telegram and said that one civilian was killed in a district of the city of what Moscow calls Donetsk People’s Republic, since claiming to have annexed it. He added that six people were also wounded in Makiivka, which is in the east of Donetsk. “In total, the enemy fired 127 rounds of ammunition at peaceful cities and regions in the republic,” said Pushilin. He also went on to claim cluster munitions were among the artillery used. This comes amid reports of both sides using cluster munitions since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Last month, Washington sent cluster munitions to Kyiv amid protests and criticism while Ukraine has since vowed to only use them against concentrations of enemy soldiers amid its counteroffensive. Ukraine reports ‘partial success’ in south In its daily update, the Ukrainian military, on Saturday (August 12), said that its forces had made progress near Robotyne on the front line in the southern Zaporizhzhia region. Ukraine also reported that there were children among those killed or wounded following a day when Russians launched six rockets, and 36 air strikes and fired 32 rocket salvo fire systems at populated areas and Ukrainian troop positions, reported Reuters. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said that they had “partial success in the Robotyne area of the Zaporizhzhia region.” Ukrainian forces continued an offensive operation in Melitopol and Berdyansk directions, said the military in its update, adding that some 33 combat clashes had taken place. Russia vows to retaliate for Ukraine’s attack on Crimea bridge The Russian foreign ministry condemned what it called Ukraine’s “terrorist attack” on the Crimean Bridge, adding that they put civilians’ lives at risk. “There can be no justification for such barbaric actions and they will not go unanswered,” said ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. This comes after Russia claimed to have shot down two Ukrainian missiles over a bridge connecting Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow back in 2014. The Russian-installed governor of the Crimean peninsula said “Air defence forces shot down two enemy missiles over the Kerch Strait. The Crimean bridge was not damaged.” 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones shot down Russia on Saturday further claimed that 20 unmanned Ukrainian drones were shot down by his officials near the Crimean peninsula where attacks by Kyiv have appeared to step up. Air defence systems were used to down 14 drones and six more using electronic warfare, said the defence ministry on the Telegram. There were no casualties or damage, it added. Kaluga region Governor Vladislav Shapsha also said that they also intercepted a drone in the region, which is around 150 kilometres southwest of Moscow. At least two killed in Russian shelling of Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia According to Ukrainian officials, an elderly woman and a police officer were killed early Saturday after Russian shelling in the Kharkiv region and Zaporizhzhia. Kharkiv governor Oleh Synehubov reported the death of a 73-year-old woman and damage to a residential building. In a separate attack on Orikhiv town in the Zaporizhzhia region, one police officer was killed and 12 people, including four police officers, were injured, reported Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

One killed, six injured in Donetsk after Ukrainian shelling, use of cluster munition: Russian official

Officials in Kyiv on Monday (August 7) claimed that a woman was killed in the Ukrainian city of Kherson while two others lost their lives after Russian shelling of border areas of the Kharkiv region in the country’s northeast. Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have shot down another Ukrainian drone on Monday near its capital city of Moscow.

<h2>Russia shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region</h2>

“A difficult night for Kherson...The Russian army continued to shell Kherson residents’ homes in the central part of the city,” said Ukrainian city’s governor Oleksandr Prokudin on Telegram. According to the Ukrainian official, the shelling had started around midnight and lasted for several hours.

This comes as the Ukrainian military has reported an increase in Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region in recent days. Notably, both the city of Kherson and parts of the Kharkiv region are directly adjacent to the front line.&nbsp;

Separately, the head of Ukraine’s presidential office, Andriy Yermak, also took to Telegram and said two civilians had been killed and three others wounded during Russian shelling of border areas of Kharkiv region on Monday morning.

The incident on Monday also comes nearly a week after Ukraine reported the death of a doctor in the Russian shelling of a Kherson hospital. Kyiv recaptured Kherson city and the surrounding region in November after months of Russian occupation.

<h2>22 soldiers return in prisoner swap with Russia: Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Russia and Ukraine carried out a series of prisoner exchanges on Monday, with 22 Ukrainian soldiers returning home, on Monday (August 7), said officials in Kyiv. The announcement was made by Yermak, who said that those released included two officers, sergeants and privates who fought in different parts of the front.&nbsp;

In a video posted on Telegram, soldiers wrapped in blue and yellow Ukrainian flags posing for pictures and shouting “Glory to Ukraine”. According to the Ukrainian official, some servicemen were also injured.&nbsp;

“Today we have returned 22 Ukrainian fighters home from captivity,” said Yermak. The oldest of them was 54 years old and the youngest 23, he added. However, there is no immediate comment from Moscow about the recent prisoner exchange.

<h2>Russia claims to have shot down drone near Moscow</h2>

In a recently reported rise of drone attacks in and around Moscow, Russia, on Monday (August 7) claimed that it shot down a Ukrainian drone southwest of the capital city. The incident is said to have taken place in Kaluga region, less than 200 kilometres from Moscow.&nbsp;

Addressing the supposed encounter, Russian regional governor Vladislav Shapsha took to Telegram and wrote that it “affected neither people nor infrastructure”. He also said that the drone was shot down by the anti-aircraft defence system in the Ferzikovsky district overnight.

&nbsp;Last week, on Thursday, Russia said that it shot down seven drones over the region, which did not result in any reported casualties. This also comes a day after Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said a drone targeting the Russian capital had been shot down by the city’s air defences.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Officials in Kyiv on Monday (August 7) claimed that a woman was killed in the Ukrainian city of Kherson while two others lost their lives after Russian shelling of border areas of the Kharkiv region in the country’s northeast.

Officials in Kyiv on Monday (August 7) claimed that a woman was killed in the Ukrainian city of Kherson while two others lost their lives after Russian shelling of border areas of the Kharkiv region in the country’s northeast. Meanwhile, Russia claimed to have shot down another Ukrainian drone on Monday near its capital city of Moscow. Russia shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region “A difficult night for Kherson...The Russian army continued to shell Kherson residents’ homes in the central part of the city,” said Ukrainian city’s governor Oleksandr Prokudin on Telegram. According to the Ukrainian official, the shelling had started around midnight and lasted for several hours. This comes as the Ukrainian military has reported an increase in Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region in recent days. Notably, both the city of Kherson and parts of the Kharkiv region are directly adjacent to the front line. Separately, the head of Ukraine’s presidential office, Andriy Yermak, also took to Telegram and said two civilians had been killed and three others wounded during Russian shelling of border areas of Kharkiv region on Monday morning. The incident on Monday also comes nearly a week after Ukraine reported the death of a doctor in the Russian shelling of a Kherson hospital. Kyiv recaptured Kherson city and the surrounding region in November after months of Russian occupation. 22 soldiers return in prisoner swap with Russia: Ukraine Russia and Ukraine carried out a series of prisoner exchanges on Monday, with 22 Ukrainian soldiers returning home, on Monday (August 7), said officials in Kyiv. The announcement was made by Yermak, who said that those released included two officers, sergeants and privates who fought in different parts of the front. In a video posted on Telegram, soldiers wrapped in blue and yellow Ukrainian flags posing for pictures and shouting “Glory to Ukraine”. According to the Ukrainian official, some servicemen were also injured. “Today we have returned 22 Ukrainian fighters home from captivity,” said Yermak. The oldest of them was 54 years old and the youngest 23, he added. However, there is no immediate comment from Moscow about the recent prisoner exchange. Russia claims to have shot down drone near Moscow In a recently reported rise of drone attacks in and around Moscow, Russia, on Monday (August 7) claimed that it shot down a Ukrainian drone southwest of the capital city. The incident is said to have taken place in Kaluga region, less than 200 kilometres from Moscow. Addressing the supposed encounter, Russian regional governor Vladislav Shapsha took to Telegram and wrote that it “affected neither people nor infrastructure”. He also said that the drone was shot down by the anti-aircraft defence system in the Ferzikovsky district overnight. Last week, on Thursday, Russia said that it shot down seven drones over the region, which did not result in any reported casualties. This also comes a day after Moscow’s Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said a drone targeting the Russian capital had been shot down by the city’s air defences. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least three killed after Russian shelling in Kherson, Kharkiv region: Ukraine

Pope Francis wrapped the last day of his Portugal visit with an open-air Mass before a huge crowd on Sunday (August 6), where he also closed the international festival of Catholic Youth with his own “I have a dream” speech, but for peace, particularly in Ukraine.&nbsp;As many as 1.5 million people attended the service at a waterside park near Lisbon, said the Vatican.

<h2>About the Mass on Sunday</h2>

According to the&nbsp;Vatican,&nbsp;the Mass, on Sunday, took place at the Parque Tejo park on the eastern outskirts of the Portuguese capital.&nbsp;

This comes as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-upcoming-visit-to-portugal-marked-by-controversies-heres-why-621184">Portugal</a>, like much of Europe, is witnessing soaring temperatures but did it not stop the faithful from gathering in large numbers, many of whom reportedly slept outside in sleeping bags or floor mats after attending a vigil there on Saturday night.&nbsp;

The pilgrims were seen protecting themselves from the blazing sun with umbrellas and makeshift tents. The event took place while Portugal’s state weather agency had issued a ‘red alert’ – the highest level – in Lisbon, on Sunday with the temperatures expected to hit 41 degrees Celsius.

<h2>Pope’s speech&nbsp;</h2>

The crowd was seen waving national flags and cheering as the 86-year-old pope arrived. During his speech, he urged them to take the fraternal experiences from the six-day jamboree back home and apply them to their daily lives. 
 
Francis also thanked the youth for taking part in the festival and called them “the hope of a different world”. The pope is set to return to Rome, on Sunday evening, after an event to thank volunteers at the World Youth Day festival.&nbsp;

“Dear friends, allow me, this old man, to share with you young people a dream that I carry within me: it is the dream of peace, the dream of young people praying for peace, living in peace and building a peaceful future,” said the pope, during his speech, as quoted by Reuters.

He added, “As you return home, please continue to pray for peace. What is more, you are a sign of peace for the world, showing how different nationalities, languages and histories can unite instead of divide. You are the hope of a different world.”&nbsp;

The pope then went on to ask the young people to think about those who could not make it to the event due to the world’s many armed conflicts and wars and said, “In thinking of this continent, I feel great sorrow for beloved Ukraine, which continues to suffer greatly.”&nbsp;

Francis, who has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine, also&nbsp;met with a delegation of 15 young people from the war-torn country.&nbsp;

<h2>Pope Francis’ visit&nbsp;</h2>

Ahead of Sunday’s Mass, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa told public television RTP, “It has been an extraordinary moment of joy, of energy, with remarkable speeches by the Holy Father, with very important messages.”&nbsp;

During his visit, the pope also went to a community centre in Lisbon’s impoverished Serafina neighbourhood and prayed at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-draws-200000-people-to-portugals-fatima-shrine-622790">Catholic Shrine of Fatima</a> with about 200,000 people at the site where the Church says the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children in 1917.

On the first day of his visit, Francis met with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-slams-clergy-sex-scandal-in-portugal-meets-with-survivors-621836">13 victims of clerical abuse</a> at the Holy See’s diplomatic mission in the capital city. “The meeting was held in an atmosphere of intense listening and lasted more than an hour,” said the Vatican, at the time.&nbsp;

<h2>Next World Youth Day in South Korea</h2>

At the end of the Mass, on Sunday, Pope Francis also announced that the South Korean capital city, Seoul, will be the host of the next edition of the World Youth Day global gathering in 2027.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Pope Francis wrapped the last day of his Portugal visit with an open-air Mass before a huge crowd on Sunday (August 6), where he also closed the international festival of Catholic Youth with his own “I have a dream” speech, but for peace, particularly in Ukraine.

Pope Francis wrapped the last day of his Portugal visit with an open-air Mass before a huge crowd on Sunday (August 6), where he also closed the international festival of Catholic Youth with his own “I have a dream” speech, but for peace, particularly in Ukraine. As many as 1.5 million people attended the service at a waterside park near Lisbon, said the Vatican. About the Mass on Sunday According to the Vatican, the Mass, on Sunday, took place at the Parque Tejo park on the eastern outskirts of the Portuguese capital. This comes as Portugal, like much of Europe, is witnessing soaring temperatures but did it not stop the faithful from gathering in large numbers, many of whom reportedly slept outside in sleeping bags or floor mats after attending a vigil there on Saturday night. The pilgrims were seen protecting themselves from the blazing sun with umbrellas and makeshift tents. The event took place while Portugal’s state weather agency had issued a ‘red alert’ – the highest level – in Lisbon, on Sunday with the temperatures expected to hit 41 degrees Celsius. Pope’s speech The crowd was seen waving national flags and cheering as the 86-year-old pope arrived. During his speech, he urged them to take the fraternal experiences from the six-day jamboree back home and apply them to their daily lives. Francis also thanked the youth for taking part in the festival and called them “the hope of a different world”. The pope is set to return to Rome, on Sunday evening, after an event to thank volunteers at the World Youth Day festival. “Dear friends, allow me, this old man, to share with you young people a dream that I carry within me: it is the dream of peace, the dream of young people praying for peace, living in peace and building a peaceful future,” said the pope, during his speech, as quoted by Reuters. He added, “As you return home, please continue to pray for peace. What is more, you are a sign of peace for the world, showing how different nationalities, languages and histories can unite instead of divide. You are the hope of a different world.” The pope then went on to ask the young people to think about those who could not make it to the event due to the world’s many armed conflicts and wars and said, “In thinking of this continent, I feel great sorrow for beloved Ukraine, which continues to suffer greatly.” Francis, who has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine, also met with a delegation of 15 young people from the war-torn country. Pope Francis’ visit Ahead of Sunday’s Mass, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa told public television RTP, “It has been an extraordinary moment of joy, of energy, with remarkable speeches by the Holy Father, with very important messages.” During his visit, the pope also went to a community centre in Lisbon’s impoverished Serafina neighbourhood and prayed at the Catholic Shrine of Fatima with about 200,000 people at the site where the Church says the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. On the first day of his visit, Francis met with 13 victims of clerical abuse at the Holy See’s diplomatic mission in the capital city. “The meeting was held in an atmosphere of intense listening and lasted more than an hour,” said the Vatican, at the time. Next World Youth Day in South Korea At the end of the Mass, on Sunday, Pope Francis also announced that the South Korean capital city, Seoul, will be the host of the next edition of the World Youth Day global gathering in 2027. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope wraps up Portugal visit with big outdoor Mass; S Korea to host next Catholic youth event in 2027

In pics | Ukraine rids 'Motherland' monument in Kyiv of Soviet era symbols

Russia claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group.

<h2>Russia's claims on US drone</h2>

The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that it scrambled a Su-30 fighter jet to “prevent a violation of the Russian state border” after a US Reaper MQ-9 military drone was detected over the Black Sea.

“As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign reconnaissance drone performed a U-turn away from the border,” said the Russian officials. The ministry also claimed that the drone belonged to the US Air Force.&nbsp;

It added, “The Russian aircraft returned safely to its airbase, there was no violation of the border.” This comes as reports about incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have multiplied over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea in recent months.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine drone strike</h2>

Both Russia and Ukraine reported that a Ukrainian sea drone laden with explosives struck a Russian fuel tanker overnight, on Saturday, near the Crimean bridge, in the second such attack in 24 hours.&nbsp;

The bridge, in question, links Russia to Crimea, which Moscow seized from Ukraine in 2014. A Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters that the drone with 450kg of explosives hit the SIG vessel as it transported fuel for the Russian military in Ukrainian territorial waters.

“The tanker was well loaded with fuel, so the ‘fireworks’ were seen from afar,” said the report by Reuters citing an intelligence source.&nbsp;

Kyiv is in the midst of its long-awaited counteroffensive against Moscow to recapture its territory and has been destroying Russia’s military infrastructure inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, as per reports.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian missile strike hits Ukraine aeronautics firm</h2>

Zelensky, on Saturday (August 5), said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukrainian aeronautics group Motor Sich, one of the companies requisitioned by the government since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion back in February 2022.&nbsp;

“Today, there was another Russian missile attack against our country. Kinzhals, Calibers. They hit Motor Sich,” said Zelensky, during his evening address. The facility is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine around 300 kilometres southwest of Kyiv.&nbsp;

According to the Ukrainian president, the strike included Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal weapons, adding that “some of the missiles were shot down.” The Khmelnytskyi region which is hundreds of kilometres from the front lines is also home to a major Ukrainian airbase and is regularly targeted by Russian strikes.&nbsp;

Notably, Motor Sich makes plane and helicopter engines and other components and was taken over by the government in Kyiv as a part of its “strategic” firms taken over by Ukraine’s defence ministry last November.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

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Russia claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group.

Russia claims to have intercepted a United States drone over the Black Sea, on Saturday (August 5). Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukraine-based aeronautics group. Russia's claims on US drone The Russian defence ministry, in a statement, said that it scrambled a Su-30 fighter jet to “prevent a violation of the Russian state border” after a US Reaper MQ-9 military drone was detected over the Black Sea. “As the Russian fighter approached, the foreign reconnaissance drone performed a U-turn away from the border,” said the Russian officials. The ministry also claimed that the drone belonged to the US Air Force. It added, “The Russian aircraft returned safely to its airbase, there was no violation of the border.” This comes as reports about incidents involving Russian and Western aircraft have multiplied over the Black Sea and Baltic Sea in recent months. Ukraine drone strike Both Russia and Ukraine reported that a Ukrainian sea drone laden with explosives struck a Russian fuel tanker overnight, on Saturday, near the Crimean bridge, in the second such attack in 24 hours. The bridge, in question, links Russia to Crimea, which Moscow seized from Ukraine in 2014. A Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters that the drone with 450kg of explosives hit the SIG vessel as it transported fuel for the Russian military in Ukrainian territorial waters. “The tanker was well loaded with fuel, so the ‘fireworks’ were seen from afar,” said the report by Reuters citing an intelligence source. Kyiv is in the midst of its long-awaited counteroffensive against Moscow to recapture its territory and has been destroying Russia’s military infrastructure inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, as per reports. Russian missile strike hits Ukraine aeronautics firm Zelensky, on Saturday (August 5), said that a Russian missile hit a facility of the Ukrainian aeronautics group Motor Sich, one of the companies requisitioned by the government since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion back in February 2022. “Today, there was another Russian missile attack against our country. Kinzhals, Calibers. They hit Motor Sich,” said Zelensky, during his evening address. The facility is located near Khmelnytskyi in western Ukraine around 300 kilometres southwest of Kyiv. According to the Ukrainian president, the strike included Russia’s hypersonic Kinzhal weapons, adding that “some of the missiles were shot down.” The Khmelnytskyi region which is hundreds of kilometres from the front lines is also home to a major Ukrainian airbase and is regularly targeted by Russian strikes. Notably, Motor Sich makes plane and helicopter engines and other components and was taken over by the government in Kyiv as a part of its “strategic” firms taken over by Ukraine’s defence ministry last November. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia claims to have intercepted US drone over Black Sea

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (July 30) warned that the “war” was coming to Russia after a drone attack on the capital Moscow. The statement comes hours after Russia claimed three Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow, early Sunday. Meanwhile, Pope Francis called for Russia to reverse its decision on the Black Sea grain deal.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky’s warning</h2>

Hours after the two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, Zelensky said, “Today is the 522nd day of the so-called ‘Special Military Operation’, which the Russian leadership thought would last a couple of weeks.”

“Gradually, the war is returning to the territory of Russia – to its symbolic centres and military bases, and this is an inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process,” Zelensky, who was in the midst of a visit to the western Ukrainian city of Ivano-Frankivsk, added.&nbsp;

“Ukraine is getting stronger,” said the Ukrainian president.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian attacks on Ukrainian power grids?</h2>

However, Zelensky also warned that Kyiv expects Moscow to resume its attacks on Ukraine’s energy system once cold weather returns later this year.&nbsp;

Nearly 40 per cent of the Ukrainian energy system was damaged in Russian missile and drone strikes over the past winter, according to a report by Reuters, the attacks had plunged Ukrainian cities into darkness and cold.&nbsp;

Kyiv has since alleged that the attacks targeting its energy grids were a deliberate strategy to harm civilians and called it a war crime. However, Moscow said that the attacks were launched to reduce Ukraine’s ability to fight.

“It is obvious that this fall and...in the winter the enemy will try to repeat the terror against the Ukrainian energy industry. We should be ready for this in any case,” said Zelensky, while addressing senior government, security, and regional officials.&nbsp;

“At the government and security level, we will do everything possible,” he added. The Ukrainian government security officials and energy workers were working to protect the energy system from physical damage, sabotage or cyberattacks, said Zelensky, as per Reuters.&nbsp; 
 
However, every city and town across Ukraine must prepare to handle energy sector emergencies, he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Drone attack on Moscow</h2>

The Russian defence ministry, early Sunday said that three Ukrainian drones were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-claims-russia-does-not-reject-peace-talks-amid-ukrainian-drone-attack-on-moscow-city-620699">downed</a> over Moscow after Kyiv’s “attempted terrorist attack,” adding that one was shot down and two, “suppressed by electronic warfare”, crashed into a building complex.

The attack damaged two office towers and briefly shut down an international airport. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram and said no one suffered injuries and reported “slight damage” to the facades of two city office towers.

<h2>Pope urges Russia to restore Black Sea grain deal</h2>

During his weekly Angelus message, on Sunday (July 30), Pope Francis called on Russia to reverse its decision on the Black Sea grain deal. This comes after Moscow, earlier this month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637">formally backed out</a> of the deal which provided a safe passage to Ukraine through which Kyiv was able to ship grain via the Black Sea despite being in the midst of a war.&nbsp;

“I appeal to my brothers, the authorities of the Russian Federation, so that the Black Sea initiative may be resumed and grain may be transported safely,” said Francis. He also urged the crowd gathered at St Peter’s Square to continue praying “for martyred Ukraine, where war is destroying everything, even grain,” calling this “a grave insult to God.”&nbsp;

The pope also said that the “cry of millions of brothers and sisters who are suffering from hunger is rising up to the sky.” The Ukrainian president took to X, formerly known as Twitter and welcomed Francis’ remarks.&nbsp;

“The reaction of the world’s religious leaders to the Russian missile terror and destruction of Ukrainian agricultural products is extremely important to protect the whole world, and especially the peoples of Africa and Asia, who suffer the most from the threat of hunger, from a food crisis,” Zelensky wrote on the microblogging platform.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (July 30) warned that the “war” was coming to Russia after a drone attack on the capital Moscow. The statement comes hours after Russia claimed three Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow, early Sunday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Sunday (July 30) warned that the “war” was coming to Russia after a drone attack on the capital Moscow. The statement comes hours after Russia claimed three Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow, early Sunday. Meanwhile, Pope Francis called for Russia to reverse its decision on the Black Sea grain deal. Zelensky’s warning Hours after the two office blocks were damaged and one person was injured in a night-time Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow, Zelensky said, “Today is the 522nd day of the so-called ‘Special Military Operation’, which the Russian leadership thought would last a couple of weeks.” “Gradually, the war is returning to the territory of Russia – to its symbolic centres and military bases, and this is an inevitable, natural and absolutely fair process,” Zelensky, who was in the midst of a visit to the western Ukrainian city of Ivano-Frankivsk, added. “Ukraine is getting stronger,” said the Ukrainian president. Russian attacks on Ukrainian power grids? However, Zelensky also warned that Kyiv expects Moscow to resume its attacks on Ukraine’s energy system once cold weather returns later this year. Nearly 40 per cent of the Ukrainian energy system was damaged in Russian missile and drone strikes over the past winter, according to a report by Reuters, the attacks had plunged Ukrainian cities into darkness and cold. Kyiv has since alleged that the attacks targeting its energy grids were a deliberate strategy to harm civilians and called it a war crime. However, Moscow said that the attacks were launched to reduce Ukraine’s ability to fight. “It is obvious that this fall and...in the winter the enemy will try to repeat the terror against the Ukrainian energy industry. We should be ready for this in any case,” said Zelensky, while addressing senior government, security, and regional officials. “At the government and security level, we will do everything possible,” he added. The Ukrainian government security officials and energy workers were working to protect the energy system from physical damage, sabotage or cyberattacks, said Zelensky, as per Reuters. However, every city and town across Ukraine must prepare to handle energy sector emergencies, he added. Drone attack on Moscow The Russian defence ministry, early Sunday said that three Ukrainian drones were downed over Moscow after Kyiv’s “attempted terrorist attack,” adding that one was shot down and two, “suppressed by electronic warfare”, crashed into a building complex. The attack damaged two office towers and briefly shut down an international airport. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin took to Telegram and said no one suffered injuries and reported “slight damage” to the facades of two city office towers. Pope urges Russia to restore Black Sea grain deal During his weekly Angelus message, on Sunday (July 30), Pope Francis called on Russia to reverse its decision on the Black Sea grain deal. This comes after Moscow, earlier this month, formally backed out of the deal which provided a safe passage to Ukraine through which Kyiv was able to ship grain via the Black Sea despite being in the midst of a war. “I appeal to my brothers, the authorities of the Russian Federation, so that the Black Sea initiative may be resumed and grain may be transported safely,” said Francis. He also urged the crowd gathered at St Peter’s Square to continue praying “for martyred Ukraine, where war is destroying everything, even grain,” calling this “a grave insult to God.” The pope also said that the “cry of millions of brothers and sisters who are suffering from hunger is rising up to the sky.” The Ukrainian president took to X, formerly known as Twitter and welcomed Francis’ remarks. “The reaction of the world’s religious leaders to the Russian missile terror and destruction of Ukrainian agricultural products is extremely important to protect the whole world, and especially the peoples of Africa and Asia, who suffer the most from the threat of hunger, from a food crisis,” Zelensky wrote on the microblogging platform. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘War’ is coming to Russia, says Ukraine’s Zelensky after Moscow drone attack

North Korea on Thursday unveiled two new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which, as per NK News, closely resembled US drones.

The country showcased its military prowess during the "Weapons and Equipment Exhibition 2023" that was held in Pyongyang. The event was held to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the armistice that halted the fighting in the 1950-53 Korean War.

It displayed the country's most advanced weaponry, including two previously unseen unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

<h2>On display, copies&nbsp;of US drones</h2>

The two new North Korean drones closely resemble the US military's RQ-4A Global Hawk and MQ-9 Reaper, which experts say signifies the nation's progress in developing combat and reconnaissance drone capabilities comparable to those of the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-mp-faces-investigation-after-allegedly-faking-sick-leave-to-holiday-abroad-during-wartime-restrictions-620042">Ukraine MP faces investigation after allegedly faking sick leave to&nbsp;holiday abroad during wartime restrictions</a>

However, as per a report in 'Independent,' Joseph Dempsey, a research associate at the International Institute for Strategic Studies said that while the UAVs visually resemble&nbsp;the US drones, they might not match their American counterparts in terms of performance capabilities.

"North Korea’s new UAV designs clearly emulate the US Global Hawk and Reaper visually but the key capabilities associated with both types–particularly in terms of flight performance, avionics or sensor payloads – will not be replicated so closely," he said.

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NEW: North Korea airs the first video footage of its two new military drones in action, showing a combat UAV firing missiles during flight. Read more about the unveiling here: <a href="https://t.co/AoOvLYVg2l">https://t.co/AoOvLYVg2l</a> <a href="https://t.co/07uYQGJv3g">pic.twitter.com/07uYQGJv3g</a>
— NK NEWS (@nknewsorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/nknewsorg/status/1684448601123217409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per the NK News report, one of the exhibited UAVs was equipped with two different types of missiles under its wings, reminiscent of the US MQ-9 Reaper combat UAV. The other model, which first seen during testing last month, boasts a wingspan of approximately 115 feet (35 metres) and a v-tail design.

Talking to the publication, Ankit Panda, Stanton Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said that while "the design does resemble several known drone designs, but that's not necessarily evidence that the North Koreans are relying on stolen information or knowledge."

<h2>Other features</h2>

The exhibition also featured North Korea's Hwasong-17 liquid-fuel ICBM, first launched in November 2022, along with its transporter erector launch vehicle (TEL).&nbsp;

Both, as per Independent, were displayed in camouflage paint schemes, indicating potential deployment to individual military units. Additionally, the Hwasong-18 solid-fuel ICBM, successfully tested in April and July, was showcased separately on stands next to its transporter. Another missile displayed was the Hwasong-12Na (Hwasong-12B), equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hailing-historic-cooperation-russian-defence-minister-shoigu-says-north-korea-an-important-partner-619608">North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation</a>

<h2>Russian and Chinese presence</h2>

The extravagant exhibition was attended by a Russian delegation led by defence minister Sergei Shoigu and a Chinese delegation led by politburo member Li Hongzhong. The presence of Russian and Chinese officials at the exhibition marked rare diplomatic exchanges amid years of isolation for North Korea during the pandemic.

As per the national news outlet KCNA, during the event, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un engaged in a "friendly talk" with Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu, who presented Kim with an autographed letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea on Thursday unveiled two new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which, as per NK News, closely resembled US drones. The country showcased its military prowess during the "Weapons and Equipment Exhibition 2023" that was held in Pyongyang.

North Korea on Thursday unveiled two new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which, as per NK News, closely resembled US drones. The country showcased its military prowess during the "Weapons and Equipment Exhibition 2023" that was held in Pyongyang. The event was held to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the armistice that halted the fighting in the 1950-53 Korean War. It displayed the country's most advanced weaponry, including two previously unseen unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). On display, copies of US drones The two new North Korean drones closely resemble the US military's RQ-4A Global Hawk and MQ-9 Reaper, which experts say signifies the nation's progress in developing combat and reconnaissance drone capabilities comparable to those of the United States. Also read | Ukraine MP faces investigation after allegedly faking sick leave to holiday abroad during wartime restrictions However, as per a report in 'Independent,' Joseph Dempsey, a research associate at the International Institute for Strategic Studies said that while the UAVs visually resemble the US drones, they might not match their American counterparts in terms of performance capabilities. "North Korea’s new UAV designs clearly emulate the US Global Hawk and Reaper visually but the key capabilities associated with both types–particularly in terms of flight performance, avionics or sensor payloads – will not be replicated so closely," he said. NEW: North Korea airs the first video footage of its two new military drones in action, showing a combat UAV firing missiles during flight. Read more about the unveiling here: https://t.co/AoOvLYVg2l pic.twitter.com/07uYQGJv3g — NK NEWS (@nknewsorg) July 27, 2023 × As per the NK News report, one of the exhibited UAVs was equipped with two different types of missiles under its wings, reminiscent of the US MQ-9 Reaper combat UAV. The other model, which first seen during testing last month, boasts a wingspan of approximately 115 feet (35 metres) and a v-tail design. Talking to the publication, Ankit Panda, Stanton Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace said that while "the design does resemble several known drone designs, but that's not necessarily evidence that the North Koreans are relying on stolen information or knowledge." Other features The exhibition also featured North Korea's Hwasong-17 liquid-fuel ICBM, first launched in November 2022, along with its transporter erector launch vehicle (TEL). Both, as per Independent, were displayed in camouflage paint schemes, indicating potential deployment to individual military units. Additionally, the Hwasong-18 solid-fuel ICBM, successfully tested in April and July, was showcased separately on stands next to its transporter. Another missile displayed was the Hwasong-12Na (Hwasong-12B), equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV). Also read | North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation Russian and Chinese presence The extravagant exhibition was attended by a Russian delegation led by defence minister Sergei Shoigu and a Chinese delegation led by politburo member Li Hongzhong. The presence of Russian and Chinese officials at the exhibition marked rare diplomatic exchanges amid years of isolation for North Korea during the pandemic. As per the national news outlet KCNA, during the event, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un engaged in a "friendly talk" with Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu, who presented Kim with an autographed letter from Russian President Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea unveils US-like drones during exhibition attended by Russian, Chinese delegations

Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons.&nbsp;

Investigators found evidence suggesting that Aristov travelled to Lithuania initially for a work-related trip, but then allegedly faked sick leave to go on&nbsp;vacation in&nbsp;a luxurious hotel in the Maldives with his family.

<h2>A holiday amid war</h2>

According to the SBU security service, the Ukrainian minister disguised his travel as a "business trip," raising suspicions about his motives and actions.&nbsp;

The case came to light after a news report exposed the MP's travel, leading to strong reactions from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed vehement disapproval.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyrylo-tymoshenko-deputy-head-of-ukraines-presidential-office-resigns-555411">Five regional governors, four deputy ministers dismissed over corruption scandal in Ukraine</a>

Condemning the behaviour, President Zelensky on Tuesday, said,&nbsp;"For some, it's about islands and resorts during the war, for others it's about lining one's pockets in the military enlistment office, for others it's about bribes in the courts."&nbsp;

He further emphasized that "any internal betrayal, any 'breach' or any personal enrichment instead of Ukraine's interests triggers fury," and would not be tolerated.

<h2>A case against the holidaying minister</h2>

Following the investigation, authorities have now opened a case against Yuriy Aristov, who also held the position of deputy chairman of the Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence on charges of forgery.&nbsp;

The charge, as per news agency AFP report citing the State Bureau of Investigation, could result in a prison sentence of up to three years.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> police searched the home of MP "<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a> Aristov". 
 
Yesterday it was revealed Yuriy Aristov had been staying in one of the world's most expensive hotels in the luxury Indian Ocean resort. 
Last night <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> ordered all MPs/officials to stay in Ukraine. <a href="https://t.co/6RkILtZ7eg">pic.twitter.com/6RkILtZ7eg</a>
— Tim White (@TWMCLtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TWMCLtd/status/1684102876141076482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-promises-free-grain-to-african-leaders-despite-western-sanctions-619996">Vladimir Putin promises free grain to African leaders despite Western sanctions</a>

In light of the scandal, Ukraine's parliament is reportedly now set to vote on Aristov's resignation.

This incident adds to a series of scandals involving high-ranking Ukrainian officials that have rocked the war-torn nation recently.

Just a few days back, Ukraine detained Yevhen Borisov, a former official from the southern Odesa region, on accusations of accepting bribes in exchange for exempting certain individuals from military conscription.

In January, the nation's Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy for allegedly accepting $400,000 bribe "to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons.

Ukraine's authorities on Wednesday said they conducted a search at the home of a member of parliament, Yuriy Aristov, who allegedly violated war-time restrictions by going on holiday abroad for personal reasons. Investigators found evidence suggesting that Aristov travelled to Lithuania initially for a work-related trip, but then allegedly faked sick leave to go on vacation in a luxurious hotel in the Maldives with his family. A holiday amid war According to the SBU security service, the Ukrainian minister disguised his travel as a "business trip," raising suspicions about his motives and actions. The case came to light after a news report exposed the MP's travel, leading to strong reactions from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who expressed vehement disapproval. Also read | Five regional governors, four deputy ministers dismissed over corruption scandal in Ukraine Condemning the behaviour, President Zelensky on Tuesday, said, "For some, it's about islands and resorts during the war, for others it's about lining one's pockets in the military enlistment office, for others it's about bribes in the courts." He further emphasized that "any internal betrayal, any 'breach' or any personal enrichment instead of Ukraine's interests triggers fury," and would not be tolerated. A case against the holidaying minister Following the investigation, authorities have now opened a case against Yuriy Aristov, who also held the position of deputy chairman of the Committee on National Security, Defence, and Intelligence on charges of forgery. The charge, as per news agency AFP report citing the State Bureau of Investigation, could result in a prison sentence of up to three years. #Ukraine police searched the home of MP "#Maldives Aristov". Yesterday it was revealed Yuriy Aristov had been staying in one of the world's most expensive hotels in the luxury Indian Ocean resort. Last night @ZelenskyyUa ordered all MPs/officials to stay in Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/6RkILtZ7eg — Tim White (@TWMCLtd) July 26, 2023 × Also read | Vladimir Putin promises free grain to African leaders despite Western sanctions In light of the scandal, Ukraine's parliament is reportedly now set to vote on Aristov's resignation. This incident adds to a series of scandals involving high-ranking Ukrainian officials that have rocked the war-torn nation recently. Just a few days back, Ukraine detained Yevhen Borisov, a former official from the southern Odesa region, on accusations of accepting bribes in exchange for exempting certain individuals from military conscription. In January, the nation's Deputy Minister of Development of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure, Vasyl Lozynkiy for allegedly accepting $400,000 bribe "to facilitate the conclusion of contracts for the purchase of equipment and generators at inflated prices". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine MP faces investigation for allegedly faking sick leave to holiday abroad during wartime restrictions

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner".

Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his&nbsp;counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation."

<h2>Russia and North Korea: A rich history of cooperation</h2>

As per AFP, Shoigu said that the meeting between his nation's delegation and the North would "contribute to strengthening cooperation between our ministries of defence".

Shoigu also said that he was "grateful to my Korean friends for the rich programme offered. From the first minutes, I felt your care and attention".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-romanian-ship-damaged-during-russian-attacks-on-reni-port-say-reports-619464">Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports</a>

The minister, along with other delegates from Russia, and China, is in North Korea to attend Korean War anniversary events. On Thursday Pyongyang marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the July 27, 1953 Korean War armistice, that is celebrated in North Korea as Victory Day.

Russia and North Korea are historic allies, and Moscow remains one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations.

Even as the global community sanctions Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and its leader Kim Jong Un remain steadfast in their support of Moscow. As per the United States,&nbsp;the nation's support extends to supplying rockets and missiles.

<h2>Shoigu&nbsp;gets&nbsp;red carpet welcome&nbsp;</h2>

North Korea, as per state media reports, rolled out the red carpet for the Russian defence minister.

As per a report by state-run Korean Central News Agency, to welcome Shoigu and his delegation on Tuesday evening, the Pyongyang International Airport was "wrapped up in a warm welcome atmosphere" as the Russian national anthem blared on speakers.

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The Russian defence minister was greeted by North Korean Defence Minister Kang Sun Nam himself. Also lining the airport were hundreds of uniformed soldiers of the Korean People's Army, reported&nbsp;the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper.

<h2>A significant visit</h2>

Talking to AFP, Park Won-gon, director of Ewha University's Institute of Unification Studies said that the fact that the Russian defence minister flew to Pyongyang while his country is at war was "very significant".

"Even though the emergency quarantine system remains in place, Kim Jong Un may have felt the need to show something to his people at the Victory Day celebrations," he said, adding that for the Chinese and Russians, their presence could send a "strong unified message," to the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner". Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who is on a visit to North Korea, called Pyongyang an "important partner". Hailing Moscow's partnership with North Korea during a meeting with his counterpart Kang Sun Nam in Pyongyang, Shoigu, as per a ministry statement said, "For Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea is an important partner, with which we share a common border and a rich history of cooperation." Russia and North Korea: A rich history of cooperation As per AFP, Shoigu said that the meeting between his nation's delegation and the North would "contribute to strengthening cooperation between our ministries of defence". Shoigu also said that he was "grateful to my Korean friends for the rich programme offered. From the first minutes, I felt your care and attention". Also read | Ukraine war: Romanian ship damaged during Russian attacks on Reni port, say reports The minister, along with other delegates from Russia, and China, is in North Korea to attend Korean War anniversary events. On Thursday Pyongyang marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the July 27, 1953 Korean War armistice, that is celebrated in North Korea as Victory Day. Russia and North Korea are historic allies, and Moscow remains one of a handful of nations with which Pyongyang maintains friendly relations. Even as the global community sanctions Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, North Korea and its leader Kim Jong Un remain steadfast in their support of Moscow. As per the United States, the nation's support extends to supplying rockets and missiles. Shoigu gets red carpet welcome North Korea, as per state media reports, rolled out the red carpet for the Russian defence minister. As per a report by state-run Korean Central News Agency, to welcome Shoigu and his delegation on Tuesday evening, the Pyongyang International Airport was "wrapped up in a warm welcome atmosphere" as the Russian national anthem blared on speakers. Also read | Former US Marine, who was released from Russian prison, injured fighting for Ukraine The Russian defence minister was greeted by North Korean Defence Minister Kang Sun Nam himself. Also lining the airport were hundreds of uniformed soldiers of the Korean People's Army, reported the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper. A significant visit Talking to AFP, Park Won-gon, director of Ewha University's Institute of Unification Studies said that the fact that the Russian defence minister flew to Pyongyang while his country is at war was "very significant". "Even though the emergency quarantine system remains in place, Kim Jong Un may have felt the need to show something to his people at the Victory Day celebrations," he said, adding that for the Chinese and Russians, their presence could send a "strong unified message," to the United States. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

North Korea an 'important partner', says Russian Defence Minister Shoigu hailing historic cooperation

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Vadim Ostanin?</h2>

Reuters reports that Ostanin was the head of opposition leader Navalny's office in Barnaul.&nbsp;

As per the jailed opposition leader's team, he carried out "legal political work".&nbsp;

Ostanin was detained in December 2021 and Navalny's team alleges that he was pressured by investigators to confess to being guilty. However, he refused.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-faces-decades-in-prison-for-rehabilitating-nazi-ideology-and-other-crimes-605858">Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes</a>

AFP reports that he has now been sentenced in the Siberian city for "participating in an extremist" organisation. As Russia intensified its crackdown on people and organisations&nbsp;in dissent of the Russian President,&nbsp;Alexei Navalny's organisations were banned.

Ostanin, who is a trained lawyer, is now awaiting a verdict on the new "extremist" charges. If found guilty, he could see his jail term extended by another 20 years.

<h2>Russia's crackdown on Putin critics</h2>

Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent.

Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media and in 2021, as the crackdown intensified, Navalny's organisations were banned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-drone-attacks-destroy-odesas-grain-depot-ukraine-618938">Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine</a>

In a similar charge, earlier this month, Lilia Chanysheva, another ally of the jailed Kremlin critic, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison. Chanysheva is the former coordinator of Navalny's headquarters in Ufa in central Russia.

This new case against the opposition leader comes amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, where over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, numerous key opposition figures, like Alexei Navalny, have been put behind bars or are in exile.

<h2>Rough treatment</h2>

Many jailed figures, including Navalny, have alleged that they're being kept in deplorable conditions. Ostanin too has described his detention in Barnaul as unsanitary, saying that there were insects and rodents like rats in his cell.&nbsp;

As per Navalny's team, Ostanin has lost some 15 kilogrammes (33 pounds) while in custody. He has allegedly also suffered from back and neck pain, and was denied access to medication for his ailments. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's aide has been imprisoned for nine years on "extremism" charges. On Monday, Navalny's organisation announced that Vadim Ostanin has been jailed in the latest case sidelining critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Who is Vadim Ostanin? Reuters reports that Ostanin was the head of opposition leader Navalny's office in Barnaul. As per the jailed opposition leader's team, he carried out "legal political work". Ostanin was detained in December 2021 and Navalny's team alleges that he was pressured by investigators to confess to being guilty. However, he refused. Also read | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes AFP reports that he has now been sentenced in the Siberian city for "participating in an extremist" organisation. As Russia intensified its crackdown on people and organisations in dissent of the Russian President, Alexei Navalny's organisations were banned. Ostanin, who is a trained lawyer, is now awaiting a verdict on the new "extremist" charges. If found guilty, he could see his jail term extended by another 20 years. Russia's crackdown on Putin critics Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war began with Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a "special military operation" on February 24th, 2022, authorities in Moscow have clamped down heavily on any signs of dissent. Taking the crackdown on freedom to a new level, as per AFP, Russia has shut down independent media and in 2021, as the crackdown intensified, Navalny's organisations were banned. Also read | Russian drones destroyed Odesa’s grain depot: Ukraine In a similar charge, earlier this month, Lilia Chanysheva, another ally of the jailed Kremlin critic, was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison. Chanysheva is the former coordinator of Navalny's headquarters in Ufa in central Russia. This new case against the opposition leader comes amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, where over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, numerous key opposition figures, like Alexei Navalny, have been put behind bars or are in exile. Rough treatment Many jailed figures, including Navalny, have alleged that they're being kept in deplorable conditions. Ostanin too has described his detention in Barnaul as unsanitary, saying that there were insects and rodents like rats in his cell. As per Navalny's team, Ostanin has lost some 15 kilogrammes (33 pounds) while in custody. He has allegedly also suffered from back and neck pain, and was denied access to medication for his ailments. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Crackdown on Putin critics: Navalny’s aide imprisoned for 'participating in an extremist' organisation

In pics | Russia's 'brazen' attack on Transfiguration Cathedral in Ukraine's Odesa

A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-are-cluster-bombs-which-us-is-set-to-provide-to-ukraine-why-it-is-facing-opposition-613067">cluster munitions</a> and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”.&nbsp;

<h2>What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death?</h2>

According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed&nbsp;after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attempted-drone-attack-on-crimea-alleges-moscow-backed-authorities-618395">Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village</a>

The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry.&nbsp;

It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack.

The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.”&nbsp;

<h2>Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists</h2>

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-nations-rights-groups-and-un-oppose-us-move-to-send-cluster-bombs-to-ukraine-613459">Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine</a>

She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<h2>German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions&nbsp;</h2>

In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas.&nbsp;

The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-threatens-tit-for-tat-use-of-cluster-munitions-against-ukraine-616228">Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine</a> 
 
Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”.&nbsp;

“We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow.

A Russian journalist was killed and three were injured in Ukraine, on Saturday (July 22), said the country’s defence ministry in what it said was a Ukrainian attack using cluster munitions and has since prompted outrage in Moscow. Meanwhile, the Russian foreign ministry has blamed the West and Kyiv for what it described as a “heinous, premeditated crime” and vowed a “response”. What do we know about the Russian journalist’s death? According to the Russian military, a war reporter for the state news agency RIA identified as Rostislav Zhuravlev was killed after coming under fire in Ukraine’s southeastern Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, three of his colleagues were injured and were later evacuated from the battlefield. ALSO READ | Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village The war reporter was killed near the frontline village of Pytikhatki, said the Russian news agency. “As a result of a strike by the Ukrainian army using cluster munitions, four journalists were wounded in various levels of severity,” said the Russian defence ministry. It added, “During an evacuation, the RIA Novosti journalist Rostislav Zhuravlev died from his wounds that resulted from the cluster munitions exploding.” Furthermore, the three journalists who got injured were said to be stable in hospital after the attack. The Russian ministry said that the journalists attacked were in the midst of “gathering material for a report on the bombing by the Kyiv regime militants of settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region using cluster munitions banned in many countries around the world.” Moscow fumes over attack on Russian journalists Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called the attack “criminal terror” by Ukraine and claimed that the attack appeared deliberate but did not provide any evidence for her claims. ALSO READ | Explained | Several nations, rights groups and UN oppose US move to send cluster bombs to Ukraine She added, “Those responsible for the brutal reprisal against a Russian journalist will inevitably suffer well-deserved punishment. The entire measure of responsibility will be shared by those who supplied cluster munitions to their Kyiv protégés.” Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the Russian upper house of parliament, Konstantin Kosachyov called the use of cluster munitions “inhuman” and blamed both the United States and Ukraine. Notably, human rights groups and the United Nations have reported that Russia has been using cluster munitions since the beginning of what it calls its “special military operation” in Ukraine. German reporter wounded by Russian cluster munitions In a separate incident which also took place on Saturday, German state-owned international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that their cameraman was injured by shrapnel in an apparent cluster bomb attack by Russia which targeted the Ukrainian army training ground in Donbas. The alleged attack took place at 12:10 pm (local time) when the DW team came under Russian artillery fire while filming at a Ukrainian army training ground near Druzhkivka, said the German broadcaster, in a statement. ALSO READ | Putin threatens 'tit-for-tat' use of cluster munitions against Ukraine Another DW correspondent Mathias Bolinger and a security escort, who was not named, were reported “unharmed.” The DW said that Shylko is being treated in a Ukrainian hospital and his condition was described as “stable so far”. “We were filming the Ukrainian army during target practice when suddenly we heard several explosions. We lay down, more explosions followed, we saw people were wounded. Later, the Ukrainian army confirmed that we had been fired at with cluster munitions,” said Bolinger. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow blames the West, Kyiv for Russian journalist’s death in Ukraine, vows ‘response’

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April.

On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

<h2>Talks going on for months</h2>

"The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/31-children-that-russia-stole-return-home-to-ukraine-580540">31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine</a>

The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal".

"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal."

The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said.

On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months.

<h2>Abduction of Ukrainian children</h2>

Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian&nbsp;children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-consider-ukraine-bound-ships-to-be-carrying-military-cargo-617577">Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo'</a>

In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children.&nbsp; At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights.

As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families.

Talks to bring home thousands of Ukraine children that have been "abducted" by Russia have reportedly been underway since April. On Wednesday, talking to Reuters, a source with knowledge of the discussions, confirmed a previous Finance Times report that Saudi Arabia and Turkey are trying to mediate the repatriation efforts and bring home Ukrainian children that have been taken to Russia, and placed in children's homes or even adopted by Russian families. Talks going on for months "The Turks and the Saudis especially have been showing an interest in bringing Ukrainian children back," the source told Reuters on the condition of anonymity. As per the Reuters source, talks had been going on since April, but they could've started earlier. Also read | 31 children that Russia 'stole' return home to Ukraine The individual reportedly failed to disclose the status of the talks. They, however, expressed doubt that a deal would be reached and said it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin accepting he's a "war criminal". "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal." The source did not indicate to Reuters how the talks were going but expressed doubt that a deal would be reached because it would depend on Russian President Vladimir Putin. "For him to give (the children) back would mean that he agrees that he's a war criminal," the source said. On Tuesday, quoting four people, a Financial Times report said that the discussions have been underway for several months. Abduction of Ukrainian children Ukraine has accused Russia of illegally carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Ukrainian children. Russia has, however, denied the "abduction" allegation and says they were transported for their own safety, and to save the children from the horrors of the war. Also read | Russia to consider Ukraine-bound ships to be carrying 'military cargo' In March, the International Criminal Court announced an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin over the war crime of unlawfully deporting Ukrainian children. At the time, another warrant on similar charges was also issued for Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights. As per Kyiv's estimates, nearly 19,500 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea since the beginning of the invasion. Of these only 385 children have been repatriated, show Ukrainian official figures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Talks to bring back Ukrainian children 'abducted' by Russia on since April: Report

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough</h2>

The Ukrainian&nbsp;head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a&nbsp;speedy headway in their&nbsp;counteroffensive to recapture&nbsp;territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said&nbsp;Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult.&nbsp;

"If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukrainian gains on the southern front</h2>

During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days.&nbsp;

Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”.

The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-re-capture-of-14-square-kilometre-territory-within-a-week-613836">July 10</a>, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine downs 16 drones in&nbsp;overnight attacks</h2>

In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow.&nbsp;

“The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes</h2>

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago.

According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack.&nbsp;

While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland.&nbsp;

The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
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Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP.

Officials in Kyiv, on Friday (July 14), claimed to have advanced nearly two kilometres along the southern front over the past week amid the Ukrainian counteroffensive to recapture its territory occupied by Russia, reported AFP. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said that they downed 16 Iranian-made drones launched by Russia overnight. Ukraine acknowledges troops not advancing fast enough The Ukrainian head of the presidency, Andriy Yermak, on Friday, conceded that the troops are not making a speedy headway in their counteroffensive to recapture territory in the east and south. "Today it's advancing not so quickly," said Yermak, adding that the battles have been difficult. "If we are going to see that something is going wrong, we'll say so. No one is going to embellish," the Kyiv official told reporters. Ukrainian gains on the southern front During a press conference, Mykola Urshalovych, a senior representative of the National Guard said that the 15th Karadag brigade and regular troops “supported by tanks, have advanced 1,700 metres to the south and southeast,” of the occupied southern city of Melitopol amid the ongoing offensive, over the past seven days. Ukrainian troops have moved forward despite “dense” minefields and shelling, he added. According to Urshalovych, National Guard troops continue to maintain their positions in the port city of Berdyansk in the Zaporizhzhia region, “under constant enemy fire”. The National Guard senior official also said that their troops are preparing to expand an offensive in the Avdiivka sector in eastern Ukraine. This comes days after the Ukrainian military said, on July 10, it had recaptured 14 square kilometres from Russian forces in the south and east of the country over the last week. Ukraine downs 16 drones in overnight attacks In a statement online, the Ukrainian air force, on Friday, said that it downed 16 out of the 17 Iranian-made drones launched by Russian forces overnight, in a reported consecutive night of aerial attacks by Moscow. “The Russians attacked Ukraine with 17 Iranian-made Shahed-136/131 attack drones from the south east direction. As a result of military operations...16 Shaheds were destroyed,” said the Ukrainian air force. Ukraine jails man for Russian plot to blow up arms transport routes The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said that a Ukrainian court, on Friday, jailed a man for 10 years after finding him guilty of plotting with Russia to blow up transport infrastructure to disrupt foreign arms supplies. The man, who was not identified, is said to have been fighting for the Russia-backed militant groups in eastern Ukraine even before Moscow began its “special military operation,” over a year ago. According to Ukraine’s domestic security agency, he was tasked with blowing up two infrastructure objects by Russian military intelligence but had been detained back in February before he was able to carry out the attack. While the exact location of where the supposed attack was not mentioned, the targets were said to have been in the Rivne region in western Ukraine which is home to several important road and railway links with NATO member and Kyiv supporter, Poland. The routes in question are kept a secret in Ukraine but the equipment is often seen passing through the eastern part of the country. This comes as Western military support is seen as vital for Ukraine to fight Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine says it advanced nearly 2 km on southern front this week; downed 16 drones overnight

Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine.

Matthew Miller, the department's spokesperson, mistakenly made this assertion not once, but twice, before admitting that he was out of touch due to his absence from the podium for a week.

<h2>The gaffe</h2>

While holding the press briefing on Monday, Miller was asked about the 500 days of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the role of the United Nations' "almost 200 member nations" in the conflict.

In reply, Miller as per the transcript available on the US State Department Website said: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine.&nbsp;The Secretary [of State Antony Blinken] spoke to this in a speech he gave in Helsinki last month, I believe it was."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-timeframe-for-ukraines-nato-membership-despite-zelenskys-scathing-criticism-of-absurd-delays-614458">No timeframe for Ukraine's NATO membership despite Zelensky's scathing criticism of 'absurd' delays</a>

His gaffe was immediately pointed out, with a reporter asking him "A strategic failure for Russia or for Ukraine?".

Thanking the reporter for the correction, the spokesperson once again said that the strategic failure lies with Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"I'm sorry, a – excuse me, a strategic failure for Ukraine. Thank you for the correction."

Watch a video of the press briefing here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
STATE DEPT. SPOX MILLER: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine..." 
 
PRESS: "Don't you mean 'a strategic failure for Russia?'" 
 
MILLER: "I'm sorry — excuse me — a strategic failure for Ukraine! Thank you for the correction!" <a href="https://t.co/o7uIpTlBSq">pic.twitter.com/o7uIpTlBSq</a>
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) <a href="https://twitter.com/Breaking911/status/1678469603968557061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The slip of the tongue by the US State Department spokesperson has ignited a debate about the true nature of Ukraine's war with Russia and the US's role in it.

<h2>The controversy stemming from Miller's gaffe</h2>

Miller's blunder has quickly gained attention on Twitter. Users have begun questioning the US support for Ukraine and are suggesting that Miller's slip of the tongue revealed a deeper truth.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-praises-elon-musk-and-twitter-over-threads-for-freedom-of-speech-614440">Taliban leader praises Elon Musk and Twitter over Threads for 'freedom of speech'</a>

Some argue that despite the subsequent correction, the repeated mistake by Miller raises doubts about the US's stance on the conflict. A few Twitter users called for Miller's resignation and questioned the continued financial aid sent to Ukraine.

<h2>Biden administration's series of blunders</h2>

This incident, as per The Daily Caller, is just one in a series of blunders that have plagued the Biden administration.

President Joe Biden himself recently made an accidental revelation about the shortage of conventional artillery shells in the US military, which he said led to the decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine instead.

Speaking to CNN, the US president was defending his turnaround decision to provide deadly cluster munitions to Ukraine and said: "This is a war relating to munitions. And they're (Ukraine) running out of that ammunition, and we're low on it."

Additionally, Biden mistakenly claimed on two occasions within 24 hours that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "losing the war in Iraq" and had become "a bit of a pariah around the world."

Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine.

Was it a Freudian slip? During a press briefing on Monday, the US State Department spokesperson made a controversial statement and claimed that the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has been a "strategic failure" for Ukraine. Matthew Miller, the department's spokesperson, mistakenly made this assertion not once, but twice, before admitting that he was out of touch due to his absence from the podium for a week. The gaffe While holding the press briefing on Monday, Miller was asked about the 500 days of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the role of the United Nations' "almost 200 member nations" in the conflict. In reply, Miller as per the transcript available on the US State Department Website said: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine. The Secretary [of State Antony Blinken] spoke to this in a speech he gave in Helsinki last month, I believe it was." Also read | No timeframe for Ukraine's NATO membership despite Zelensky's scathing criticism of 'absurd' delays His gaffe was immediately pointed out, with a reporter asking him "A strategic failure for Russia or for Ukraine?". Thanking the reporter for the correction, the spokesperson once again said that the strategic failure lies with Ukraine. "I'm sorry, a – excuse me, a strategic failure for Ukraine. Thank you for the correction." Watch a video of the press briefing here: STATE DEPT. SPOX MILLER: "We believe the war has been a strategic failure for Ukraine..." PRESS: "Don't you mean 'a strategic failure for Russia?'" MILLER: "I'm sorry — excuse me — a strategic failure for Ukraine! Thank you for the correction!" pic.twitter.com/o7uIpTlBSq — Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 10, 2023 × The slip of the tongue by the US State Department spokesperson has ignited a debate about the true nature of Ukraine's war with Russia and the US's role in it. The controversy stemming from Miller's gaffe Miller's blunder has quickly gained attention on Twitter. Users have begun questioning the US support for Ukraine and are suggesting that Miller's slip of the tongue revealed a deeper truth. Also read | Taliban leader praises Elon Musk and Twitter over Threads for 'freedom of speech' Some argue that despite the subsequent correction, the repeated mistake by Miller raises doubts about the US's stance on the conflict. A few Twitter users called for Miller's resignation and questioned the continued financial aid sent to Ukraine. Biden administration's series of blunders This incident, as per The Daily Caller, is just one in a series of blunders that have plagued the Biden administration. President Joe Biden himself recently made an accidental revelation about the shortage of conventional artillery shells in the US military, which he said led to the decision to provide cluster munitions to Ukraine instead. Speaking to CNN, the US president was defending his turnaround decision to provide deadly cluster munitions to Ukraine and said: "This is a war relating to munitions. And they're (Ukraine) running out of that ammunition, and we're low on it." Additionally, Biden mistakenly claimed on two occasions within 24 hours that Russian President Vladimir Putin was "losing the war in Iraq" and had become "a bit of a pariah around the world."

Freudian slip? US official says, twice, war with Russia 'strategic failure' for Ukraine

A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine.&nbsp;

This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart.&nbsp;

<h2>Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast?</h2>

In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”.&nbsp;

The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island.&nbsp;

The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;in 2018&nbsp;and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure.

The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region</h2>

Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties.&nbsp;

Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev.&nbsp;

<h2>Polish president’s visit to Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance.&nbsp;

Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv.

<h2>Poland increases security along eastern border</h2>

The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus.

“Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.”&nbsp;

The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk.&nbsp;

Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday,&nbsp;including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to&nbsp;the Border Guard.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year.

A Ukrainian defence official, on Sunday (July 9), seemingly revealed that the country’s forces attacked the bridge connecting Russia and Russian-occupied Crimea, last year. Meanwhile, Russian officials claimed that their air defence systems shot down two missiles, one over the annexed Crimean peninsula and the other one over the southern Rostov region which borders Ukraine. This also comes amid the Polish president’s visit to Ukraine to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart. Did Ukraine claim responsibility for Crimea bridge blast? In what might be the first direct admission of Ukraine’s involvement in the blast which damaged Russia’s only land link to Crimea (annexed by Moscow in 2014), Ukraine’s Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar in a Telegram post, said, “(It’s been) 273 days since (we) carried out the first strike on the Crimean bridge in order to disrupt the logistics for the Russians”. The post, on Saturday, also noted some other Ukrainian successes amid the ongoing conflict, including the sinking of the Moskva cruiser, which the Russian officials have refused to attribute to a Ukrainian attack, as well as the liberation of Snake Island. The Kerch Bridge blast took place in October 2022 and was inaugurated by President Vladimir Putin in 2018 and is seen as a vital transport link carrying military equipment to Russian soldiers in Ukraine. Officials in Moscow had determined that the blast took place after a vehicle had exploded and ignited a huge fire, setting ablaze seven oil tankers transported by train and collapsing two car lanes of the giant road and rail structure. The Ukrainian defence official’s statement also caught the attention of Russian state media and officials. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, in response, once again called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s government a “terrorist regime” and condemned the attack, in an online statement. Russia claims to have intercepted missiles over Crimea and Rostov region Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov took to Telegram, on Sunday, and said that a cruise missile was shot down near the city of Kerch on the Crimean peninsula but did not inflict any damage or cause casualties. Additionally, local officials also reported some disruption in the traffic movement on the Crimean Bridge but said it was restored after an apparent suspension. However, they did not give any reason for the traffic halt. Meanwhile, Russian Governor Vasily Golubev also took to Telegram and said the air defence shot down a Ukrainian missile in the Rostov region which is close to the Ukrainian border. “There were no casualties. The debris partially damaged the roofs of several buildings,” said Golubev. Polish president’s visit to Ukraine Polish President Andrzej Duda took to social media, on Sunday, and wrote, “We are stronger together,” while visiting the western city of Lutsk with his Ukrainian counterpart, on Sunday. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit on July 11-12 where Kyiv is expecting a clear indication about being a part of the United States-led military alliance. Notably, Poland has been one of the biggest supporters of Ukraine within NATO since the beginning of the conflict over a year ago and asked for “security guarantees” from other members of the alliance for Kyiv. Poland increases security along eastern border The Polish president’s visit to Ukraine comes a day after the country’s defence minister said that they are moving more than 1,000 troops to the east of the country amid concerns over the presence of Russia’s Wagner Group fighters in neighbouring Belarus. “Over 1,000 soldiers and almost 200 units of equipment from the 12th and 17th Mechanized Brigades are starting to move to the east of the country,” said Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He added, “This is a demonstration of our readiness to respond to attempts at destabilisation near the border of our country.” The move also comes nearly a week after Warsaw said it would send 500 police officers to its border with Belarus to secure its border amid an increase in the number of migrants trying to cross into the country from Minsk. Over 200 people tried to enter Poland illegally, on Friday, including citizens of Morocco, India and Ethiopia, according to the Border Guard. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian official seemingly claims responsibility for Crimea bridge blast

India leaders have a unique voice&nbsp;to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Briefing a select number of journalists and 'thought leaders' on the 500 days of the Ukraine war, the road ahead and the economic impact, Brink said that America is committed to supporting Ukraine.

India's leadership and USA

Recalling Indian Prime Minister Narendra's remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brink said that "We agree to PM Narendra Modi's message - Now, is not the time of war."

In September of last year, speaking to the Russian leader on the sidelines of the SCO Heads of State Council summit in Uzbekistan, the Indian leader said that "I know today's time is not a time for war," and stressed the importance of "democracy and diplomacy and dialogue".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-shares-video-of-putin-with-a-young-fan-attempts-to-repaint-russian-president-as-caring-612359">Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring'</a>

Talking about USA's commitment to supporting Ukraine, the ambassador said that nearly 20 per cent of Ukraine's territory remains occupied.

<h2>Ukraine and the Black Sea Grain Initiative</h2>

Speaking about the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Brink said that Ukraine is working hard to keep grain exports flowing to the world.

As per the ambassador, Russia is blocking tonnes of grain, which is further exacerbating food prices globally.

"I have been to Black Sea Ports where ships loaded with thousands of tonnes of grains are blocked by Russia from sailing to markets to lower the food price in the world," she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-xi-jinping-personally-warn-vladimir-putin-against-nuclear-attack-in-ukraine-612226">Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine?</a>

Brink further remarked that she has witnessed Kyiv's attempts "to expand Black Sea Grain Initiative" and said that the USA is supporting the nation in this.

She further quoted the World Food Programme and said that globally, "345 million people are facing high levels of food insecurity," the majority of whom are in Africa and the Middle East.

"Ukraine food exports are vital to the world economy," she said.

Brink said that Russia also benefits from these Black Sea initiatives.&nbsp;

"Its grain exports are now at in some cases above pre-war level and yet Russia is slowing inspection of ships and threatening to withdraw from the initiative after July 18 as the initiative became more important than ever," she said.

<h2>India's role</h2>

As per the US ambassador, Indian leadership can play an important role here.&nbsp;

"India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the expansion of the Black Sea Initiative," said Brink.&nbsp;

The diplomat said that New Delhi and Washington share ideals of freedom and democracy and that India understands the importance of freedom and territorial integrity.

She further added that Indian leaders have spoken about these principles in terms of the threat posed by neighbouring countries with rising ambitions and no respect for territorial integrity.

"India's aspirations of global leadership reflect the spirit needed for a just system," she said, adding that the nation's aspiration for global leadership is evident through its G20 theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future".

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India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday.

India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the nation can play a unique role in resolving the Ukraine war, said Bridget Brink, the US ambassador to Ukraine on Wednesday. Briefing a select number of journalists and 'thought leaders' on the 500 days of the Ukraine war, the road ahead and the economic impact, Brink said that America is committed to supporting Ukraine. India's leadership and USA Recalling Indian Prime Minister Narendra's remarks to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brink said that "We agree to PM Narendra Modi's message - Now, is not the time of war." In September of last year, speaking to the Russian leader on the sidelines of the SCO Heads of State Council summit in Uzbekistan, the Indian leader said that "I know today's time is not a time for war," and stressed the importance of "democracy and diplomacy and dialogue". Also read | Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring' Talking about USA's commitment to supporting Ukraine, the ambassador said that nearly 20 per cent of Ukraine's territory remains occupied. Ukraine and the Black Sea Grain Initiative Speaking about the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Brink said that Ukraine is working hard to keep grain exports flowing to the world. As per the ambassador, Russia is blocking tonnes of grain, which is further exacerbating food prices globally. "I have been to Black Sea Ports where ships loaded with thousands of tonnes of grains are blocked by Russia from sailing to markets to lower the food price in the world," she said. Also read | Did Xi Jinping personally warn Vladimir Putin against nuclear attack in Ukraine? Brink further remarked that she has witnessed Kyiv's attempts "to expand Black Sea Grain Initiative" and said that the USA is supporting the nation in this. She further quoted the World Food Programme and said that globally, "345 million people are facing high levels of food insecurity," the majority of whom are in Africa and the Middle East. "Ukraine food exports are vital to the world economy," she said. Brink said that Russia also benefits from these Black Sea initiatives. "Its grain exports are now at in some cases above pre-war level and yet Russia is slowing inspection of ships and threatening to withdraw from the initiative after July 18 as the initiative became more important than ever," she said. India's role As per the US ambassador, Indian leadership can play an important role here. "India leaders have a unique voice to stand up for developing countries and the expansion of the Black Sea Initiative," said Brink. The diplomat said that New Delhi and Washington share ideals of freedom and democracy and that India understands the importance of freedom and territorial integrity. She further added that Indian leaders have spoken about these principles in terms of the threat posed by neighbouring countries with rising ambitions and no respect for territorial integrity. "India's aspirations of global leadership reflect the spirit needed for a just system," she said, adding that the nation's aspiration for global leadership is evident through its G20 theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's 'unique voice' key to resolving Ukraine conflict, says US ambassador to Kyiv

The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.&nbsp;

In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/dangerous-provocations-by-russia-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-zelensky-to-macron-612025">Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies</a>

Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control.

<h2>A bizarre call</h2>

The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus.

As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south.

"Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/eye-of-the-beholder-chinese-man-creates-website-rating-attractiveness-of-university-students-612289">'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students</a>

A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations.

Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president.

Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader.

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Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане. 
 
Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. <a href="https://t.co/9Guf6kTWue">pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue</a>
— Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) <a href="https://twitter.com/GazetaRu/status/1676270212222525470?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Rebuilding trust or saving face?</h2>

The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people.

Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned.

The Russia-Ukraine war is well into its second year and the man credited for the death and destruction is the nation's President Vladimir Putin. Amid international condemnation triggered by the conflict, on Tuesday, the Kremlin released a video that seems to be designed to portray the leader as caring and concerned. In the video, President Putin is joined by an eight-year-old Russian girl seeking a budget grant from Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov. Also read | Zelensky accuses Russia of ‘dangerous provocations’ at nuclear plant, Moscow denies Released in the aftermath of last month's brief armed mutiny, the video, as per Reuters, also attempts to show that Putin remains in control. A bizarre call The video which was released by the Kremlin shows Putin welcoming the girl, eight-year-old Raisat Akipova. It featured a bizarre call, in which the child asks the Russian finance minister for a grant for her home region of Dagestan, which is situated in Russia's North Caucasus. As per Reuters, initially, Anton Siluanov seemed bemused by the girl's demands and failed to respond to her greetings. However, he soon agrees to extra funding of five billion roubles for her home region in Russia's south. "Excellent!" responded the Russian President. He then tells the girl: "We've got five billion roubles for Dagestan". Five billion roubles is around 55.6 million USD. Also read | 'Eye of the beholder?': Chinese man detained for creating website rating attractiveness of university students A similar call was placed to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. The video shows Putin chuckling with amusement during the conversations. Later, the little girl holding a bouquet of flowers thanked Siluanov when prompted by the Russian president. Reuters reports that Putin told Raisat that he had invited her and her parents to Moscow because a picture of her in tears after failing to see him on his Dagestan trip had distressed the leader. Владимир Путин встретился в Кремле с девочкой из Дербента, которая очень расстроилась, что не увидела его, когда президент был в Дагестане. Глава государства провел для девочки экскурсию по Кремлю, позволил посидеть в своем кресле и вместе с ней позвонил Мишустину и Силуанову. pic.twitter.com/9Guf6kTWue — Газета.Ru (@GazetaRu) July 4, 2023 × Rebuilding trust or saving face? The little girl's visit as per Reuters is a sequel to Putin's visit to Dagestan last week where he was seen mingling with a large crowd of people. Kremlin has been citing this as evidence of the Russian President's "astounding" support in the nation and comes just days after a mutiny by mercenary group Wagner made the headlines. The mutiny had prompted warnings of the risk of civil war in Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kremlin shares video of Putin with a young fan, attempts to repaint Russian President as 'caring'

Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia. The move has led to demonstrations outside Unilever's London headquarters.&nbsp;

<h2>What Kyiv alleges</h2>

"The National Agency on Corruption Prevention has added British company Unilever onto its list of 'International Sponsors of War'," said a statement.

The agency stated that Unilever's presence in Russia and its significant tax contributions to the Russian state budget support the aggressor country's economy and contribute to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine.

Unilever's addition to the list is because of its "presence in the Russian Federation and its significant taxes to the Russian state budget," and "thereby supporting the aggressor's economy and contributing to the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-military-raided-wagner-bases-in-syria-detained-fighters-and-leaders-reports-611461">Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports</a>

In addition to Unilever, the campaign group Global Witness accused French energy giant TotalEnergies and British company Shell of continuing to profit from Russian gas. Both companies responded to the claims by stating that contractual obligations bind them but have terminated partnerships in Russia following the country's invasion last year.

<h2>The company's response</h2>

Unilever, known for brands such as Dove soap, Magnum ice cream, and Cif surface cleaner, reiterated a statement made in February in which it condemned the war in Ukraine as a "brutal and senseless act by the Russian state".&nbsp;

The company claimed to have ceased imports and exports of its goods into and out of Russia.&nbsp;

However, Unilever acknowledged that it supplies everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people within the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-detains-a-man-it-says-ukraine-sent-to-assassinate-crimeas-head-611416">Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head</a>

It said that it was supplying "everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people in the country,"&nbsp;and noted that "exiting is not straightforward" process.

<h2>The demonstrations</h2>

As per AFP, demonstrations took place outside Unilever's London headquarters, with activists from both Ukraine and Britain displaying signs. One billboard reportedly resembled a Dove advertisement and featured wounded Ukrainian soldiers.

Unilever's 2022 results indicate that two per cent of its net profit was earned through operations in Russia. According to estimates from the Kyiv School of Economics, Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes last year.

As per the Kyiv School of Economics estimates, last year Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes.

 
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Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia.

Ukraine has added British consumer goods company Unilever to its "International Sponsors of War" list, alleging that the company continues to profit from its operations in Russia. The move has led to demonstrations outside Unilever's London headquarters. What Kyiv alleges "The National Agency on Corruption Prevention has added British company Unilever onto its list of 'International Sponsors of War'," said a statement. The agency stated that Unilever's presence in Russia and its significant tax contributions to the Russian state budget support the aggressor country's economy and contribute to Russia's ongoing war against Ukraine. Unilever's addition to the list is because of its "presence in the Russian Federation and its significant taxes to the Russian state budget," and "thereby supporting the aggressor's economy and contributing to the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine," it said. Also read | Russian military raided Wagner bases in Syria, detained fighters and leaders: Reports In addition to Unilever, the campaign group Global Witness accused French energy giant TotalEnergies and British company Shell of continuing to profit from Russian gas. Both companies responded to the claims by stating that contractual obligations bind them but have terminated partnerships in Russia following the country's invasion last year. The company's response Unilever, known for brands such as Dove soap, Magnum ice cream, and Cif surface cleaner, reiterated a statement made in February in which it condemned the war in Ukraine as a "brutal and senseless act by the Russian state". The company claimed to have ceased imports and exports of its goods into and out of Russia. However, Unilever acknowledged that it supplies everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people within the country. Also read | Russia detains a man it says Ukraine sent to assassinate Crimea's head It said that it was supplying "everyday food and hygiene products made in Russia to people in the country," and noted that "exiting is not straightforward" process. The demonstrations As per AFP, demonstrations took place outside Unilever's London headquarters, with activists from both Ukraine and Britain displaying signs. One billboard reportedly resembled a Dove advertisement and featured wounded Ukrainian soldiers. Unilever's 2022 results indicate that two per cent of its net profit was earned through operations in Russia. According to estimates from the Kyiv School of Economics, Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes last year. As per the Kyiv School of Economics estimates, last year Unilever paid at least $331 million in Russian taxes.

Ukraine places Unilever on 'International Sponsors of War' list; triggers protests in London

Kremlin clarified on Wednesday that it only hits military-linked targets in Ukraine after a missile strike on a Ukrainian restaurant left at least 10 people dead and wounded more than 60 people.&nbsp;

The Ria Pizza restaurant located in the eastern city of Kramatorsk is popular with military officials, journalists and aid workers, and it was busy with guests when the strike took place.&nbsp;

Ukrainian emergency services later announced that three children were among the dead. Kramatorsk is one of the few cities in Eastern Ukraine still under Kyiv’s control.

<h2>Death toll expected to rise</h2>

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Wednesday said, “Strikes are only carried out on objects that are in one way or another linked to military infrastructure."

"The Russian Federation does not carry out strikes on civilian infrastructure," he added.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War

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The death toll is expected to rise and several people are still feared buried under the rubble. Russia has denied targeting civilian infrastructure in its 16-month-long campaign of “liberating the Russian-speaking regions of Ukraine.”

<h2>Ukraine's first lady condemns the attack</h2>

Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska condemned the attack through a post on Twitter. "Crowded place, evening - enemy do not want normal life in Ukraine," she wrote in her tweet. "There are a lot of wounded. It is painful," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plan-to-train-ukrainian-f-16-pilots-still-in-work-609230">Also read:&nbsp;Plan to train Ukrainian F-16 pilots still in work</a>

The city's mayor, Oleksandr Goncharenko, said the body of a boy was pulled from rubble Wednesday morning, without revealing his age.&nbsp;Kramatorsk's&nbsp;education department said in a statement, "It is with sadness and unbearable pain that we report the death of two Aksenchenko sisters, Yuliya and Anna, students of Kramatorsk Primary School No. 24."

<h2>Ukraine arrests man for aiding Russian attack</h2>

Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities on Wednesday arrested a man they believe had helped Russians in directing the attack on the restaurant.&nbsp;

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Kremlin clarified on Wednesday that it only hits military-linked targets in Ukraine after a missile strike on a Ukrainian restaurant left at least 10 people dead and wounded more than 60 people.

Kremlin clarified on Wednesday that it only hits military-linked targets in Ukraine after a missile strike on a Ukrainian restaurant left at least 10 people dead and wounded more than 60 people. The Ria Pizza restaurant located in the eastern city of Kramatorsk is popular with military officials, journalists and aid workers, and it was busy with guests when the strike took place. Ukrainian emergency services later announced that three children were among the dead. Kramatorsk is one of the few cities in Eastern Ukraine still under Kyiv’s control. Death toll expected to rise Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Wednesday said, “Strikes are only carried out on objects that are in one way or another linked to military infrastructure." "The Russian Federation does not carry out strikes on civilian infrastructure," he added. Watch: Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War × The death toll is expected to rise and several people are still feared buried under the rubble. Russia has denied targeting civilian infrastructure in its 16-month-long campaign of “liberating the Russian-speaking regions of Ukraine.” Ukraine's first lady condemns the attack Ukraine's First Lady Olena Zelenska condemned the attack through a post on Twitter. "Crowded place, evening - enemy do not want normal life in Ukraine," she wrote in her tweet. "There are a lot of wounded. It is painful," she added. Also read: Plan to train Ukrainian F-16 pilots still in work The city's mayor, Oleksandr Goncharenko, said the body of a boy was pulled from rubble Wednesday morning, without revealing his age. Kramatorsk's education department said in a statement, "It is with sadness and unbearable pain that we report the death of two Aksenchenko sisters, Yuliya and Anna, students of Kramatorsk Primary School No. 24." Ukraine arrests man for aiding Russian attack Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities on Wednesday arrested a man they believe had helped Russians in directing the attack on the restaurant. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘We hit only military-linked targets,’ Russia clarifies after strike on restaurant kills at least 10

A report by the United Nations monitoring mission in Ukraine released on Tuesday (June 27) said Russia has detained more than 800 civilians and executed 77 of them since the beginning of the Ukraine war, over a year ago. The report also noted that more than 900 detentions took place in both Ukraine and Russia which included children and elderly people.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the report find?</h2>

The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine presented the findings of its 36-page report based on 70 visits to detention centres, 274 site visits, and more than 1,000 interviews at the official places of detention run by Ukrainian authorities.

Speaking at a press conference in Geneva via video link from Uzhhorod, Ukraine, Matilda Bogner, head of the UN mission in Ukraine said, “We documented over 900 cases of arbitrary detention of civilians, including children, and elderly people.”&nbsp;

She added, “The vast majority of these cases were perpetrated by the Russian Federation.” The report addresses the period from the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24 last year until May 23 this year.&nbsp;

However, the number could be much higher since Russia did not grant any access to its places of detentions or detainees for the visits or interviews, despite many requests, said the UN official. On the other hand, Ukraine gave UN investigators full access to official places of detention and detainees with one exception.

<h2>‘Widespread torture and ill-treatment’ of detainees on both sides</h2>

Presenting the findings of the report, the UN mission in Ukraine said Russian forces, law enforcement, and penitentiary authorities have “engaged in widespread torture and ill-treatment of civilian detainees.” Bogner said that over 91 per cent of those civilians detained by Russia told UN investigators that they are been subjected to torture and ill-treatment.

“Torture was used to force victims to confess to helping Ukrainian armed forces, compel them to cooperate with the occupying authorities, or intimidate those with pro-Ukrainian views,” said Bogner. According to the report, victims told UN investigators that they were subjected to sexual violence including rape and electric shocks to the genitals.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the UN report also claimed that some other methods of torture included, punching and cutting detainees, strangling, waterboarding, electric shocks, deprivation of water and food, putting sharp objects under fingernails and mock executions.&nbsp;

This was in addition to so-called welcome beatings and random group beatings, said the UN report, citing some conflict-related detainees, as per AFP. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, “Over half of those arbitrarily detained were subjected to torture or ill-treatment by Ukrainian security forces,” said Bogner, adding that this would happen when “people were being interrogated, usually immediately after arrest.”

<h2>‘It is a war crime’: Bogner about Russian executions</h2>

“We documented the summary execution of 77 civilians while they were arbitrarily detained by the Russian Federation,” said the UN mission in Ukraine. This was in addition to 864 individual cases of arbitrary detention by Russia which included 763 men, 94 women and seven boys, said the UN report.&nbsp;

However, many of them are now said to have amounted to enforced disappearances. Addressing the press conference, she said that the 77 executions attributed to Russia are “a war crime... it’s also a gross violation of international human rights law.”&nbsp;

Bogner also said at least a quarter of the known cases of civilians arbitrarily detained by Moscow, were transferred to other locations within Russian-occupied territory in Ukraine or deported to Russia. While more than half of the civilians have been released some remain “disappeared,” said the UN mission in Ukraine.

<h2>What does the UN report say about Ukraine?</h2>

According to the UN mission chief in Ukraine, no executions were documented on the Ukrainian side. But they did document 75 individual cases of arbitrary detention of civilians by the Ukrainian forces who were predominantly suspected of conflict-related offences.&nbsp;

The report also noted how changes to Ukraine’s criminal codes had given Kyiv greater discretion to carry out such practices. The UN investigators also found that a significant proportion of the arbitrary detention amounted to enforced disappearances which were carried out predominantly by the Security Service of Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A report by the United Nations monitoring mission in Ukraine released on Tuesday (June 27) said Russia has detained more than 800 civilians and executed 77 of them since the beginning of the Ukraine war, over a year ago.

A report by the United Nations monitoring mission in Ukraine released on Tuesday (June 27) said Russia has detained more than 800 civilians and executed 77 of them since the beginning of the Ukraine war, over a year ago. The report also noted that more than 900 detentions took place in both Ukraine and Russia which included children and elderly people. What did the report find? The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine presented the findings of its 36-page report based on 70 visits to detention centres, 274 site visits, and more than 1,000 interviews at the official places of detention run by Ukrainian authorities. Speaking at a press conference in Geneva via video link from Uzhhorod, Ukraine, Matilda Bogner, head of the UN mission in Ukraine said, “We documented over 900 cases of arbitrary detention of civilians, including children, and elderly people.” She added, “The vast majority of these cases were perpetrated by the Russian Federation.” The report addresses the period from the beginning of the Russian invasion on February 24 last year until May 23 this year. However, the number could be much higher since Russia did not grant any access to its places of detentions or detainees for the visits or interviews, despite many requests, said the UN official. On the other hand, Ukraine gave UN investigators full access to official places of detention and detainees with one exception. ‘Widespread torture and ill-treatment’ of detainees on both sides Presenting the findings of the report, the UN mission in Ukraine said Russian forces, law enforcement, and penitentiary authorities have “engaged in widespread torture and ill-treatment of civilian detainees.” Bogner said that over 91 per cent of those civilians detained by Russia told UN investigators that they are been subjected to torture and ill-treatment. “Torture was used to force victims to confess to helping Ukrainian armed forces, compel them to cooperate with the occupying authorities, or intimidate those with pro-Ukrainian views,” said Bogner. According to the report, victims told UN investigators that they were subjected to sexual violence including rape and electric shocks to the genitals. Furthermore, the UN report also claimed that some other methods of torture included, punching and cutting detainees, strangling, waterboarding, electric shocks, deprivation of water and food, putting sharp objects under fingernails and mock executions. This was in addition to so-called welcome beatings and random group beatings, said the UN report, citing some conflict-related detainees, as per AFP. Meanwhile, on the Ukrainian side, “Over half of those arbitrarily detained were subjected to torture or ill-treatment by Ukrainian security forces,” said Bogner, adding that this would happen when “people were being interrogated, usually immediately after arrest.” ‘It is a war crime’: Bogner about Russian executions “We documented the summary execution of 77 civilians while they were arbitrarily detained by the Russian Federation,” said the UN mission in Ukraine. This was in addition to 864 individual cases of arbitrary detention by Russia which included 763 men, 94 women and seven boys, said the UN report. However, many of them are now said to have amounted to enforced disappearances. Addressing the press conference, she said that the 77 executions attributed to Russia are “a war crime... it’s also a gross violation of international human rights law.” Bogner also said at least a quarter of the known cases of civilians arbitrarily detained by Moscow, were transferred to other locations within Russian-occupied territory in Ukraine or deported to Russia. While more than half of the civilians have been released some remain “disappeared,” said the UN mission in Ukraine. What does the UN report say about Ukraine? According to the UN mission chief in Ukraine, no executions were documented on the Ukrainian side. But they did document 75 individual cases of arbitrary detention of civilians by the Ukrainian forces who were predominantly suspected of conflict-related offences. The report also noted how changes to Ukraine’s criminal codes had given Kyiv greater discretion to carry out such practices. The UN investigators also found that a significant proportion of the arbitrary detention amounted to enforced disappearances which were carried out predominantly by the Security Service of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia detained hundreds, executed 77 civilians since Ukraine war began: UN

Yuya Motomura, a Mahjong parlour manager in Japan, had always wanted a way to prove himself to a society he felt looked down on him. Then Russia invaded&nbsp;Ukraine.

The 45-year-old is one of a handful of&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;men who have joined Ukrainians battling the Russian invasion, defying their government's warnings and bucking a decades-long national principle of pacifism.

Japan's military is constitutionally limited to defence and has not fought since World War II.

Still, Motomura said he was immediately captivated by the idea of fighting in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;when he saw President Volodymyr Zelensky talking about "defending our independence, our country".

"I've always felt that I'm someone who is more socially conscious than other people realise," he told AFP as he prepared to leave Japan for the conflict.

"By fighting for&nbsp;Ukraine, I could prove it with more than just words."

Motomura took a first trip to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;just two months after Russia's invasion, initially carrying supplies for refugees and the displaced.

He was determined to find a place among the country's fighters, and after several trips was accepted into the Georgian Legion, which includes many foreign members.

He is not the legion's first recruit from Japan, and his acceptance was eased by a compatriot, who goes by Haru-san and has acknowledged previously belonging to the yakuza -- the&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;mafia.

ALSO READ&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gender-equality-meet-japan-appoints-man-as-host-at-g7-meeting-on-womens-empowerment-609383">Gender equality meet? Japan sends a man as representative at G7 meeting on women’s empowerment</a>

Georgian Legion commander Mamuka Mamulashvili told AFP the unit currently counts eight&nbsp;Japanese&nbsp;among troops from 33 nationalities in its ranks.

"They are very motivated, very disciplined and easily master the training they are undergoing now," he said.

<h2>&nbsp;Against government advice&nbsp;</h2>

While many of the foreign fighters who have flocked to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;from other countries come with military and combat experience, Japan's unique constitutional constraints mean its volunteers start as absolute novices.

And when&nbsp;Ukraine's embassy in Tokyo initially called for volunteers to join the fight -- echoing an invitation by Zelensky for foreign support -- it quickly retracted it.

Japan's government, like those elsewhere, has warned its citizens against travel to&nbsp;Ukraine.

A small determined group has ignored that advice.

Last year, Japan confirmed a citizen who was reportedly a former member of the country's military had been killed in combat in&nbsp;Ukraine.

And Motomura said he had been contacted by members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces who were supportive of his plans.

"I think many people in this country feel frustrated about being bound under the constitution," he said.

Motomura has already helped recruit others to the cause, with Kenjiro Miyamori, a former cook, telling AFP he was inspired by him to join the legion.

"I am sure there are many men in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;who don't want to go to the war front but have to for the loved ones," the 44-year-old said, speaking by video from&nbsp;Ukraine.

WATCH&nbsp;New images show Chinese spy balloons also targeted Asia as Japan vows retaliation

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"I want to replace one of them and fight for their country."

<h2>&nbsp;'Worthless in Japan'&nbsp;</h2>

Motomura admits his motivations are tied up in his personal circumstances, including a difficult childhood.

"I stopped going to school in fourth grade (age 10)," he said, recounting his earliest memory -- sitting backstage at an evening cabaret where his mother performed.

She developed a mental illness after escaping his abusive father, and he left school to take care of her, he said.

He now runs a shop where customers play the Chinese tile game mahjong, sleeping during the day and living apart from his two children and their mother.

"If I had money and this shop was going well, I wouldn't go," he said as he packed items including camouflage jackets and khaki vests.

"I am a worthless person in Japan, but I am hoping to bring back something from&nbsp;Ukraine."

Miyamori too cites his divorce and the separation from his three-year-old son as part of his motivation to fight.

"I think there are many people like me," he said.

The two men arrived in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;in April, but are circumspect about the exact nature of their training, saying only it includes plenty of running and exercises.

Motomura said he did not yet know when, or even if, he would be deployed, but he had no regrets about his decision.

"People in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;may feel encouraged just by the fact that we came here all the way from Japan," he said from Kyiv.

"I am here in this country, hoping to make use of myself. In that sense, I already feel fulfilled."

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Yuya Motomura, a Mahjong parlour manager in Japan, had always wanted a way to prove himself to a society he felt looked down on him. Then Russia invaded Ukraine.

Yuya Motomura, a Mahjong parlour manager in Japan, had always wanted a way to prove himself to a society he felt looked down on him. Then Russia invaded Ukraine. The 45-year-old is one of a handful of Japanese men who have joined Ukrainians battling the Russian invasion, defying their government's warnings and bucking a decades-long national principle of pacifism. Japan's military is constitutionally limited to defence and has not fought since World War II. Still, Motomura said he was immediately captivated by the idea of fighting in Ukraine when he saw President Volodymyr Zelensky talking about "defending our independence, our country". "I've always felt that I'm someone who is more socially conscious than other people realise," he told AFP as he prepared to leave Japan for the conflict. "By fighting for Ukraine, I could prove it with more than just words." Motomura took a first trip to Ukraine just two months after Russia's invasion, initially carrying supplies for refugees and the displaced. He was determined to find a place among the country's fighters, and after several trips was accepted into the Georgian Legion, which includes many foreign members. He is not the legion's first recruit from Japan, and his acceptance was eased by a compatriot, who goes by Haru-san and has acknowledged previously belonging to the yakuza -- the Japanese mafia. ALSO READ Gender equality meet? Japan sends a man as representative at G7 meeting on women’s empowerment Georgian Legion commander Mamuka Mamulashvili told AFP the unit currently counts eight Japanese among troops from 33 nationalities in its ranks. "They are very motivated, very disciplined and easily master the training they are undergoing now," he said. Against government advice While many of the foreign fighters who have flocked to Ukraine from other countries come with military and combat experience, Japan's unique constitutional constraints mean its volunteers start as absolute novices. And when Ukraine's embassy in Tokyo initially called for volunteers to join the fight -- echoing an invitation by Zelensky for foreign support -- it quickly retracted it. Japan's government, like those elsewhere, has warned its citizens against travel to Ukraine. A small determined group has ignored that advice. Last year, Japan confirmed a citizen who was reportedly a former member of the country's military had been killed in combat in Ukraine. And Motomura said he had been contacted by members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces who were supportive of his plans. "I think many people in this country feel frustrated about being bound under the constitution," he said. Motomura has already helped recruit others to the cause, with Kenjiro Miyamori, a former cook, telling AFP he was inspired by him to join the legion. "I am sure there are many men in Ukraine who don't want to go to the war front but have to for the loved ones," the 44-year-old said, speaking by video from Ukraine. WATCH New images show Chinese spy balloons also targeted Asia as Japan vows retaliation × "I want to replace one of them and fight for their country." 'Worthless in Japan' Motomura admits his motivations are tied up in his personal circumstances, including a difficult childhood. "I stopped going to school in fourth grade (age 10)," he said, recounting his earliest memory -- sitting backstage at an evening cabaret where his mother performed. She developed a mental illness after escaping his abusive father, and he left school to take care of her, he said. He now runs a shop where customers play the Chinese tile game mahjong, sleeping during the day and living apart from his two children and their mother. "If I had money and this shop was going well, I wouldn't go," he said as he packed items including camouflage jackets and khaki vests. "I am a worthless person in Japan, but I am hoping to bring back something from Ukraine." Miyamori too cites his divorce and the separation from his three-year-old son as part of his motivation to fight. "I think there are many people like me," he said. The two men arrived in Ukraine in April, but are circumspect about the exact nature of their training, saying only it includes plenty of running and exercises. Motomura said he did not yet know when, or even if, he would be deployed, but he had no regrets about his decision. "People in Ukraine may feel encouraged just by the fact that we came here all the way from Japan," he said from Kyiv. "I am here in this country, hoping to make use of myself. In that sense, I already feel fulfilled." WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Despite government's warning, Japanese men join Ukraine war

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said his nation would soon deploy Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missiles for combat duty, reported Reuters. The new generation of Sarmat missiles can carry 10 or more nuclear warheads, triggering concerns about the nuclear standoff in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The first Sarmat launchers will be put on combat duty "in the near future", Putin said.

<h2>Russia’s triad of nuclear forces</h2>

Putin on Wednesday also stressed the importance of the nuclear triad for Russian defence, which means the capability to strike from land, sea or air. During a speech to new graduates of military academies, Putin said, “The most important task here is the development of the nuclear triad, which is a key guarantee of Russia's military security and global stability."

"Already about half of the units and formations of the Strategic Missile Forces are equipped with the latest Yars systems, and the troops are being re-equipped with modern missile systems with the Avangard hypersonic warhead," the Russian leader added.

Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu also addressed the crowd of young graduates in the Kremlin's St George's Hall and said that the “collective west” was waging a “real war” against Russia.&nbsp;

<h2>Why Sarmat missiles are significant for Russia?</h2>

The Sarmat missile is a powerful weapon designed for long-range nuclear strikes but has faced delays in its deployment. Originally intended to be operational by autumn 2022, Russia's plans have not progressed as swiftly as anticipated.

Watch:&nbsp;Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War

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Dmitry Rogozin, the former head of Russia's space agency, previously stated that the missiles would be stationed in the Krasnoyarsk region of Siberia, approximately 3,000 kilometres (1,860 miles) east of Moscow. The deployment was expected to involve utilising the same silos and locations currently occupied by the older Voyevoda missiles, which the Sarmat missiles are intended to replace.

Rogozin expressed enthusiasm for this advanced weaponry, labelling it a "super-weapon" and emphasising its historical significance. He claimed that the Sarmat missile would provide a lasting safeguard for the security of future generations in Russia, protecting their children and grandchildren for the next 30-40 years.

<h2>Ukraine’s counter-offensive falters</h2>

Russia’s announcement regarding its Sarmat missiles comes as Ukraine is believed to have created 12 brigades to set in motion a counteroffensive to liberate areas currently under Russian occupation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-counteroffensive-is-slower-than-desired-says-zelensky-606979">Also read:&nbsp;Ukraine counteroffensive is `slower than desired`, says Zelensky</a>

However, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky recently conceded that Ukraine’s counteroffensive may be going “slower than desired”. &nbsp;Ukraine has announced the liberation of only eight villages as a result of its two weeks of offensive operations with heavy mining and Russian air superiority proving to be a major obstacle to progress.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said his nation would soon deploy Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missiles for combat duty, reported Reuters. The new generation of Sarmat missiles can carry 10 or more nuclear warheads, triggering concerns about the nuclear standoff in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said his nation would soon deploy Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missiles for combat duty, reported Reuters. The new generation of Sarmat missiles can carry 10 or more nuclear warheads, triggering concerns about the nuclear standoff in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The first Sarmat launchers will be put on combat duty "in the near future", Putin said. Russia’s triad of nuclear forces Putin on Wednesday also stressed the importance of the nuclear triad for Russian defence, which means the capability to strike from land, sea or air. During a speech to new graduates of military academies, Putin said, “The most important task here is the development of the nuclear triad, which is a key guarantee of Russia's military security and global stability." "Already about half of the units and formations of the Strategic Missile Forces are equipped with the latest Yars systems, and the troops are being re-equipped with modern missile systems with the Avangard hypersonic warhead," the Russian leader added. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu also addressed the crowd of young graduates in the Kremlin's St George's Hall and said that the “collective west” was waging a “real war” against Russia. Why Sarmat missiles are significant for Russia? The Sarmat missile is a powerful weapon designed for long-range nuclear strikes but has faced delays in its deployment. Originally intended to be operational by autumn 2022, Russia's plans have not progressed as swiftly as anticipated. Watch: Ukraine: Counteroffensive leads to advancements in Southern region | Russia-Ukraine War × Dmitry Rogozin, the former head of Russia's space agency, previously stated that the missiles would be stationed in the Krasnoyarsk region of Siberia, approximately 3,000 kilometres (1,860 miles) east of Moscow. The deployment was expected to involve utilising the same silos and locations currently occupied by the older Voyevoda missiles, which the Sarmat missiles are intended to replace. Rogozin expressed enthusiasm for this advanced weaponry, labelling it a "super-weapon" and emphasising its historical significance. He claimed that the Sarmat missile would provide a lasting safeguard for the security of future generations in Russia, protecting their children and grandchildren for the next 30-40 years. Ukraine’s counter-offensive falters Russia’s announcement regarding its Sarmat missiles comes as Ukraine is believed to have created 12 brigades to set in motion a counteroffensive to liberate areas currently under Russian occupation. Also read: Ukraine counteroffensive is `slower than desired`, says Zelensky However, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky recently conceded that Ukraine’s counteroffensive may be going “slower than desired”. Ukraine has announced the liberation of only eight villages as a result of its two weeks of offensive operations with heavy mining and Russian air superiority proving to be a major obstacle to progress. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia to soon deploy Sarmat nuclear missiles for combat duty: Putin

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades.

This new case against the opposition leader is occurring amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, resulting in the imprisonment or exile of numerous key opposition figures.&nbsp;

<h2>The upcoming trial of Alexei Navalny</h2>

The trial starts Monday. It will be conducted in the maximum-security IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, located approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow, where Navalny is currently incarcerated.

As per Navalny, prosecutors had provided him with an extensive 3,828-page document outlining the alleged crimes he committed while in prison.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/109-navalny-supporters-including-underage-child-arrested-by-russian-police-600624">Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's 109 supporters, including underage child arrested by Russian police</a>

"Although it is clear from the size of the tomes that I am a sophisticated and persistent criminal, it is impossible to find out what exactly I am accused of," he remarked.

Among the charges, Navalny faces are financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities, and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology.&nbsp;

This trial marks the first overtly political case against him, according to his team.&nbsp;

Speaking to AFP, Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, emphasised that "he is being tried for his political work".&nbsp;

Yarmysh added that the initial court hearing on Monday is expected to be open to the public, but there remains the possibility that reporters can be banned from covering the proceedings "even three minutes after the start".&nbsp;

In April, Navalny revealed that he had been informed of an impending trial by a military tribunal on charges of "terrorism," which could result in a life sentence.

<h2>The imprisoned Kremlin critic</h2>

Navalny, who as per AFP, is known for his ability to mobilise large-scale anti-Kremlin protests, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges, which his supporters view as a form of punishment for his political activities.

The 47-year-old Navalny was arrested in 2021 upon his return from Germany, where he had been recuperating from a poison attack the previous year, an incident he attributed to the Kremlin.&nbsp;

While in prison, Navalny has experienced significant weight loss and now faces the prospect of up to another 30 years of incarceration.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalny-says-he-faces-30-more-years-in-prison-in-absurd-terrorism-case-586380">Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case</a>

Navalny's team alleges that he has faced harassment in prison, including being placed in a "punishment cell" for perceived violations. He claimed that prison officials compelled him to share a cell with a 'sick, foul-smelling inmate' and subjected him, along with other prisoners, to "torture by Putin," forcing them to listen to speeches by the Russian president.

On his third birthday behind bars in early June, Navalny stated that he was "in a really good mood" but expressed a heartfelt desire to wake up outside the prison.

"Of course, I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children,&nbsp;unwrap presents."

<h2>How is Navalny communicating from inside the prison?</h2>

As per AFP, Navalny has established a substantial social media operation, producing videos that expose the corruption of Russian elites close to President Vladimir Putin. Despite his incarceration, he continues to communicate through social media platforms with the assistance of his team.&nbsp;

In February, he asserted that Moscow's defeat in Ukraine was "inevitable" and that Russia should be held accountable for Ukraine's losses once the conflict ends.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny is set to face trial, where he will be tried on charges of "extremism" that carry the potential of keeping him imprisoned for several decades. This new case against the opposition leader is occurring amidst an escalated crackdown in Moscow, over a year into the country's offensive in Ukraine, resulting in the imprisonment or exile of numerous key opposition figures. The upcoming trial of Alexei Navalny The trial starts Monday. It will be conducted in the maximum-security IK-6 penal colony in Melekhovo, located approximately 250 kilometres (155 miles) east of Moscow, where Navalny is currently incarcerated. As per Navalny, prosecutors had provided him with an extensive 3,828-page document outlining the alleged crimes he committed while in prison. Also read | Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's 109 supporters, including underage child arrested by Russian police "Although it is clear from the size of the tomes that I am a sophisticated and persistent criminal, it is impossible to find out what exactly I am accused of," he remarked. Among the charges, Navalny faces are financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities, and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology. This trial marks the first overtly political case against him, according to his team. Speaking to AFP, Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, emphasised that "he is being tried for his political work". Yarmysh added that the initial court hearing on Monday is expected to be open to the public, but there remains the possibility that reporters can be banned from covering the proceedings "even three minutes after the start". In April, Navalny revealed that he had been informed of an impending trial by a military tribunal on charges of "terrorism," which could result in a life sentence. The imprisoned Kremlin critic Navalny, who as per AFP, is known for his ability to mobilise large-scale anti-Kremlin protests, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges, which his supporters view as a form of punishment for his political activities. The 47-year-old Navalny was arrested in 2021 upon his return from Germany, where he had been recuperating from a poison attack the previous year, an incident he attributed to the Kremlin. While in prison, Navalny has experienced significant weight loss and now faces the prospect of up to another 30 years of incarceration. Also read | Navalny says he faces 30 more years in prison in 'absurd' terrorism case Navalny's team alleges that he has faced harassment in prison, including being placed in a "punishment cell" for perceived violations. He claimed that prison officials compelled him to share a cell with a 'sick, foul-smelling inmate' and subjected him, along with other prisoners, to "torture by Putin," forcing them to listen to speeches by the Russian president. On his third birthday behind bars in early June, Navalny stated that he was "in a really good mood" but expressed a heartfelt desire to wake up outside the prison. "Of course, I wish I didn't have to wake up in this hellhole and instead have breakfast with my family, receive kisses on the cheek from my children, unwrap presents." How is Navalny communicating from inside the prison? As per AFP, Navalny has established a substantial social media operation, producing videos that expose the corruption of Russian elites close to President Vladimir Putin. Despite his incarceration, he continues to communicate through social media platforms with the assistance of his team. In February, he asserted that Moscow's defeat in Ukraine was "inevitable" and that Russia should be held accountable for Ukraine's losses once the conflict ends. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny faces decades in prison for 'rehabilitating Nazi ideology' and other crimes

A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second&nbsp;reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month. Meanwhile, both Ukrainian and Russian officials have reported a rise in the death toll after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam.&nbsp;

<h2>Death toll due to Kakhovka dam breach rises</h2>

The death toll from the floods due to the destruction of the Kakhovka dam rose to 16 in Ukraine, said the officials in Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Russia-installed official in the Moscow-occupied parts of the Kherson region, Andrei Alekseyenko, took to Telegram and said at least 29 people have lost their lives due to the flood, as of late Saturday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian interior ministry, in a statement also said that more than 3,600 people have been evacuated from the flooded areas in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions and some 31 were still missing. Additionally, as of late Saturday, at least 1,300 were flooded, said the Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;

The destruction of the Soviet-era dam on the Dnipro River has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people after it unleashed a flood in several parts of southern Ukraine and in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine.&nbsp;

While, both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of destroying the dam, a team of international legal experts who are helping prosecutors in Kyiv with the investigation, in their preliminary findings on Friday said it was “highly likely” that the collapse of the Soviet-era dam was caused by explosives planted by Russians.

<h2>Ukrainian forces reportedly take over another village</h2>

In what might be the second gain&nbsp;for the Ukrainian forces along the southern Zaporizhzhia region front, a Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov reported that Kyiv has taken over the settlement of Piatykhatky. Rogov took to Telegram and said Ukrainian forces have entrenched themselves there while coming under fire from Russian troops.&nbsp;

“The enemy’s ‘wave-like’ offensives yielded results, despite enormous losses,” said the Russian official, adding that heavy fighting continues in the area. The claim was not immediately confirmed by Kyiv. This also comes days after&nbsp;Ukraine said it regained&nbsp;control of&nbsp;Lobkove, a village adjacent to Piatykhatky in Zaporizhzhia region.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Sunday said&nbsp;its forces had repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line with "most active actions" in&nbsp;Zaporizhzhia direction while also mentioning&nbsp;attempts to attack in the&nbsp;South-Donetsk and Donetsk directions. However, the ministry did not confirm the Russian-installed official's claim.&nbsp;

<h2>Ukraine claims to have destroyed ‘significant’ ammunition depot in Kherson</h2>

A spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, Serhiy Bratchuk, on Sunday, claimed that Ukrainian forces have destroyed a “significant” ammunition depot near the Russian-occupied port city of Henichesk in Kherson. &nbsp;

In a video message, Bratchuk, said, “Our armed forces dealt a good blow in the morning - and a very loud one - in the village of Rykove, Henichesk district, in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region.” He added, “There was a very significant ammunition depot. It was destroyed.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month.

A Russia-installed official, on Sunday (June 18) acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have recaptured Piatykhatky village in the southern Zapororizhzhia region, in what might be the second reported gains in the region since Kyiv began its counteroffensive, earlier this month. Meanwhile, both Ukrainian and Russian officials have reported a rise in the death toll after the destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Death toll due to Kakhovka dam breach rises The death toll from the floods due to the destruction of the Kakhovka dam rose to 16 in Ukraine, said the officials in Kyiv. Meanwhile, a Russia-installed official in the Moscow-occupied parts of the Kherson region, Andrei Alekseyenko, took to Telegram and said at least 29 people have lost their lives due to the flood, as of late Saturday. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian interior ministry, in a statement also said that more than 3,600 people have been evacuated from the flooded areas in the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions and some 31 were still missing. Additionally, as of late Saturday, at least 1,300 were flooded, said the Ukrainian officials. The destruction of the Soviet-era dam on the Dnipro River has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people after it unleashed a flood in several parts of southern Ukraine and in Russia-occupied parts of Ukraine. While, both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of destroying the dam, a team of international legal experts who are helping prosecutors in Kyiv with the investigation, in their preliminary findings on Friday said it was “highly likely” that the collapse of the Soviet-era dam was caused by explosives planted by Russians. Ukrainian forces reportedly take over another village In what might be the second gain for the Ukrainian forces along the southern Zaporizhzhia region front, a Russian-installed official Vladimir Rogov reported that Kyiv has taken over the settlement of Piatykhatky. Rogov took to Telegram and said Ukrainian forces have entrenched themselves there while coming under fire from Russian troops. “The enemy’s ‘wave-like’ offensives yielded results, despite enormous losses,” said the Russian official, adding that heavy fighting continues in the area. The claim was not immediately confirmed by Kyiv. This also comes days after Ukraine said it regained control of Lobkove, a village adjacent to Piatykhatky in Zaporizhzhia region. Meanwhile, the Russian defence ministry, in a statement on Sunday said its forces had repelled a series of Ukrainian attacks across three sections of the front line with "most active actions" in Zaporizhzhia direction while also mentioning attempts to attack in the South-Donetsk and Donetsk directions. However, the ministry did not confirm the Russian-installed official's claim. Ukraine claims to have destroyed ‘significant’ ammunition depot in Kherson A spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, Serhiy Bratchuk, on Sunday, claimed that Ukrainian forces have destroyed a “significant” ammunition depot near the Russian-occupied port city of Henichesk in Kherson. In a video message, Bratchuk, said, “Our armed forces dealt a good blow in the morning - and a very loud one - in the village of Rykove, Henichesk district, in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region.” He added, “There was a very significant ammunition depot. It was destroyed.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Death toll in Kakhovka dam collapse increases to 45; Ukraine recaptures another village

Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments.

Following this discovery, an RNZ journalist has been placed on leave.&nbsp;

Here's what happened:

<h2>How did pro-Russian content make it to the RNZ website?</h2>

As per a report on the RNZ website, a digital journalist has been placed on leave after it was found that he had altered copies from news agencies like Reuters to reflect pro-Russian views.

When questioned, the journalist told RNZ Checkpoint that he had been subbing the stories that way for a number of years and "nobody had queried it".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-counter-offensive-kyiv-retakes-seven-villages-russia-launches-missile-strike-overnight-603707">Ukraine counter-offensive: Kyiv retakes seven villages, Russia launches missile strike overnight</a>

<h2>How is Radio New Zealand rectifying the situation?</h2>

As per RNZ head Paul Thompson, hundreds of stories have already been audited and more would be checked "with a fine-toothed comb".

21 stories have already been audited and edited to reflect "balanced" reports. They've been republished with corrections and editor's notes. Thousands more will be scrutinised.

<h2>What do RNZ executives have to say?</h2>

RNZ chief Paul Thompson has apologised to listeners, readers, staff and the Ukrainian community.

BBC reports that talking to RNZ's Nine to Noon, Thompson said: "It's so disappointing that this pro-Kremlin garbage has ended up in our stories."&nbsp;

"It's inexcusable," he added.

"It is so disappointing. I'm gutted. It's painful. It's shocking," he added.&nbsp;"We have to get to the bottom of how it happened."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-frances-macron-promises-more-military-aid-to-kyiv-as-counteroffensive-begins-603681">Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins</a>

Jim Mather, a board person, said that the revelations have eroded public trust and that it will take a lot of work to come back from this.

"We see ourselves as guardians of a taonga and that taonga being the 98 years of history that RNZ has in terms of trusted public media and high standards of excellent journalism and so it is fair to say we are extremely disappointed," he told RNZ Checkpoint.

"We need to demonstrate that we are prepared to review every aspect of what has occurred to actually start the restoration process in terms of confidence in RNZ."

<h2>The 'pro-Kremlin' coverage</h2>

As per BBC, the edited articles included claims like Russia had annexed Crimea after a referendum. However, the referendum and the Russian occupation of Crimea, which is part of Ukraine's southern peninsula, are not recognised by Kyiv or the wider international community.&nbsp;The United Nations has even passed a resolution, emphasising the illegitimacy of the referendum.&nbsp;

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Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing. Accountability? Expect better from public broadcaster. <a href="https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP">https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP</a>
— Helen Clark (@HelenClarkNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelenClarkNZ/status/1667459221196091393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark took to Twitter to voice her displeasure and said that she expected&nbsp;better from the public broadcaster.&nbsp;"Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing," she wrote.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments.

Radio New Zealand (RNZ) chief executive Paul Thompson has apologised for the public broadcaster's publishing of content he labelled "pro-Kremlin garbage". On Friday (June 9th), the publisher was alerted to several of its Ukraine war-related stories having been altered to support pro-Russian sentiments. Following this discovery, an RNZ journalist has been placed on leave. Here's what happened: How did pro-Russian content make it to the RNZ website? As per a report on the RNZ website, a digital journalist has been placed on leave after it was found that he had altered copies from news agencies like Reuters to reflect pro-Russian views. When questioned, the journalist told RNZ Checkpoint that he had been subbing the stories that way for a number of years and "nobody had queried it". Also read | Ukraine counter-offensive: Kyiv retakes seven villages, Russia launches missile strike overnight How is Radio New Zealand rectifying the situation? As per RNZ head Paul Thompson, hundreds of stories have already been audited and more would be checked "with a fine-toothed comb". 21 stories have already been audited and edited to reflect "balanced" reports. They've been republished with corrections and editor's notes. Thousands more will be scrutinised. What do RNZ executives have to say? RNZ chief Paul Thompson has apologised to listeners, readers, staff and the Ukrainian community. BBC reports that talking to RNZ's Nine to Noon, Thompson said: "It's so disappointing that this pro-Kremlin garbage has ended up in our stories." "It's inexcusable," he added. "It is so disappointing. I'm gutted. It's painful. It's shocking," he added. "We have to get to the bottom of how it happened." Also read | Ukraine war: France's Macron promises more military aid to Kyiv as counteroffensive begins Jim Mather, a board person, said that the revelations have eroded public trust and that it will take a lot of work to come back from this. "We see ourselves as guardians of a taonga and that taonga being the 98 years of history that RNZ has in terms of trusted public media and high standards of excellent journalism and so it is fair to say we are extremely disappointed," he told RNZ Checkpoint. "We need to demonstrate that we are prepared to review every aspect of what has occurred to actually start the restoration process in terms of confidence in RNZ." The 'pro-Kremlin' coverage As per BBC, the edited articles included claims like Russia had annexed Crimea after a referendum. However, the referendum and the Russian occupation of Crimea, which is part of Ukraine's southern peninsula, are not recognised by Kyiv or the wider international community. The United Nations has even passed a resolution, emphasising the illegitimacy of the referendum. Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing. Accountability? Expect better from public broadcaster. https://t.co/uEqdEnndAP — Helen Clark (@HelenClarkNZ) June 10, 2023 × Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark took to Twitter to voice her displeasure and said that she expected better from the public broadcaster. "Extraordinary that there is so little editorial oversight at Radio New Zealand that someone employed by/contracted to them was able to rewrite online content to reflect pro-Russia stance without senior staff noticing," she wrote. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand national broadcaster chief apologises for  'inexcusable' pro-Russia stories